Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump discusses settling $10 billion IRS lawsuit with himself — While traveling to Florida on Air Force One, President Trump responded to a reporter's question about handling his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS by suggesting he could settle the case with himself and direct the settlement funds to charities of his choosing, implying that taking American taxpayer money would enable him to use it for public good as he determines.
• Trump claimed he will settle Mar-a-Lago lawsuit with himself — Trump was asked about his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS for leaked tax returns. Trump stated: "I've virtually won the Mar-a-Lago break-in suit. And you know I have to work out some kind of a settlement. I'm supposed to work out a settlement with myself." Trump claimed he would donate any settlement to charity, but the statement indicates that Trump's DOJ will be settling multiple cases with Trump's lawyers to pay him taxpayer money.

Supporting reports

• Trump proposed 250-foot "Golden Arch" monument in Washington D.C. — Trump administration proposed constructing a 250-foot "Golden Arch" in Washington D.C. to mark America's 250th anniversary. According to the Washington Post, the structure would tower over existing memorials, alter the skyline, and block views of the Lincoln Memorial. Experts warned it is wildly out of scale. The proposed arch would be the second-largest triumphal arch ever designed, surpassed only by a massive arch Adolf Hitler planned for Berlin but never built.
• Trump proposed 250-foot Arc de Triomphe in Washington DC — Trump told reporters he is considering building an arc in Washington DC similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, stating "We're the only major city doesn't have one" and "I'd like it to be the biggest one of all. We're the biggest, most powerful nation. I'd like it to be the biggest one."
• Trump administration pursuing vanity projects while cutting essential services — The Trump administration is pursuing grandiose aesthetic projects including renaming federal properties, adding gold fixtures to the White House, and building a 250-foot "Arc de Trump" near the Lincoln Memorial modeled after the Napoleonic arch in Paris. Republican senators Roger Wicker, Thom Tillis, and Lisa Murkowski expressed concern that these vanity projects distract from addressing the needs of struggling Americans, high prices, and healthcare funding. Senator Ron Johnson defended the projects as appropriate for a "builder."

Supporting reports

• FBI executes search warrant at Fulton County elections office, seizes ballots and voter data — FBI agents executed a criminal search warrant at the Fulton County elections office in Union City, Georgia, on January 28, 2026, seizing approximately 700 boxes of election materials including all ballots, tabulator tapes, electronic ballot images, and voter rolls. The raid was conducted at the behest of the Trump administration as part of efforts to relitigate the 2020 presidential election. Election integrity experts have confirmed the 2020 election was the most secure to date, and dozens of legal challenges to Trump's defeat have failed.
• FBI raid on Fulton County election office based on debunked election-denial claims — On 28 January 2026, the FBI raided the Fulton County election office in Georgia, seizing nearly 700 boxes of election materials. The search warrant affidavit, unsealed on 11 February, reveals the raid's rationale was based on debunked claims from election deniers and originated from a referral by Kurt Olsen, a White House lawyer who previously sought to overturn the 2020 election. Witnesses included conservative activists and Trump-aligned Georgia state election board members. Claims cited in the affidavit—regarding ballot image discrepancies, tabulator tape handling, and "pristine" ballots—had been previously investigated and debunked by state officials.
• FBI seized 2020 election records from Fulton County in January raid — On January 28, 2026, FBI agents executed a criminal search warrant at Fulton County's election offices in Georgia, seizing approximately 700 boxes of 2020 election documents. In a federal court hearing on March 27, Fulton County's lawyers argued the FBI's affidavit contained misrepresentations and relied on debunked claims from witnesses, some of whom had been sanctioned for lying or convicted of other crimes. The county contends the seizure was part of the Trump administration's campaign to delegitimize the 2020 election results and that the statute of limitations for any alleged crimes has expired.
• Trump directs national intelligence investigation into voting machines — Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard launched an investigation into voting machines at Trump's direction. Simultaneously, the FBI conducted an unprecedented search of the Fulton County, Georgia election office in late January 2026, seizing ballots related to the 2020 election. The basis for the raid relied on recycled and debunked claims about the 2020 election. These actions are part of a broader administration effort to undermine confidence in election integrity ahead of November 2026 midterms.
• Tulsi Gabbard present at FBI search warrant execution at Fulton County elections office — On January 28, FBI agents executed a search warrant at the Fulton County elections hub in Union City, Georgia, seeking 2020 election records including ballots, tabulator tapes, ballot images, and voter rolls. Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, was present at the scene. An unnamed administration official cited election security and foreign interference concerns; Gabbard has not publicly explained her presence. Democratic lawmakers questioned whether her attendance violated protocols or represented a politicization of the intelligence community.
• FBI agents raided Fulton County, Georgia election office and seized 2020 election materials — FBI agents, operating under a warrant issued by U.S. Attorney Thomas Albus (appointed by Trump to the Eastern District of Missouri), raided an election office in Fulton County, Georgia and removed 700 boxes of ballots, tabulation tapes, and other election-related materials from the 2020 election. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was present at the raid, met with some of the FBI agents, and connected Trump to the agents by phone, allowing Trump to speak directly to them during the operation.
• FBI raided Fulton County election office under Trump administration direction — On January 28, 2026, FBI agents executed a warrant to seize records from the Fulton County, Georgia election office related to the 2020 election. The warrant authorized seizure of physical ballots, voting machine tabulator tapes, voter rolls, and electronic data. Trump administration officials claimed the materials constituted evidence of crime. Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's Director of National Intelligence, was on site despite the DNI having no domestic law enforcement role and being tasked with foreign intelligence.
• FBI executes search warrant at Fulton County election office for 2020 election records — The FBI executed a search warrant at the Fulton County, Georgia election office on January 29, 2026, seeking ballots, tabulator tapes, ballot images, and voter rolls from the 2020 election. County Commissioner Mo Ivory stated the initial warrant was "legally incorrect" and was challenged by county officials before the FBI obtained a corrected version. Democratic officials expressed concern that chain of custody protections were inadequate, fearing the Trump Administration could modify seized materials. The warrant was issued by interim U.S. Attorney Thomas Albus (Eastern District of Missouri) and suggests alleged criminal conduct involved retaining records and tabulating false ballots.
• FBI executes search warrant at Fulton County election office, seizing 2020 ballots and records — FBI agents executed a search warrant at the Fulton County, Georgia election office on Wednesday afternoon, seizing all 2020 election ballots, tabulator tapes, ballot images, and voter rolls. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard was present during the raid. The action follows the Trump administration's nationwide push to obtain voter rolls and investigate alleged election fraud, despite courts dismissing three of nearly two dozen related DOJ lawsuits. Election officials and experts contend the raid has little legal basis and serves to undermine public confidence in election integrity ahead of the 2026 midterms.
• FBI executes search warrant at Fulton County elections warehouse — The Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant at the elections warehouse in Fulton County, Georgia, to seize ballots from the 2020 presidential election, including all tabulator tapes and ballot images from the original ballot count. The seizure also included all voter rolls from Fulton County. The action breaks the chain of custody and contaminates the files. This action occurs as President Trump continues to assert that the 2020 election was stolen despite zero evidence, five years of debunked claims, and dismissal of dozens of court cases.
• FBI seizes 2020 election ballots from Fulton County, Georgia warehouse — The FBI executed a search warrant at the elections warehouse in Fulton County, Georgia, to seize ballots from the 2020 presidential election. This action is part of ongoing efforts by Trump and his allies to promote unfounded claims of voter fraud despite a lack of evidence.
• Georgia State Board of Elections subpoenas 2020 election records from Fulton County — The Federal Bureau of Investigation seized ballots from the 2020 presidential election stored in a warehouse in Fulton County, Georgia. The seizure occurred as Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has been reassigned to investigate Trump's claims that the 2020 election was stolen, focusing on allegations of foreign government involvement.
• FBI raids Fulton County election office for 2020 materials — The Georgia State Board of Elections, which has a Trump-aligned majority, issued a subpoena for 2020 election records from Fulton County at the urging of Trump and election denialists. Fulton County initially sought to quash the subpoena in court. In December, a Fulton County superior court judge ruled in the state board's favor, ordering the county to turn over records. County officials estimated the cost of producing the documents at $376,800 and had scheduled a February 9 meeting to discuss the transfer process before the FBI raid occurred.
• DHS warns of prosecution for doxing ICE agents — FBI agents conducted a raid on the Fulton County election office to seize materials related to the 2020 presidential election. The action is characterized as part of the Trump Administration's broader effort to challenge the legitimacy of the 2020 election results and to support claims of election fraud.
• FBI Atlanta field office chief removed after questioning DOJ's 2020 election investigation — The Department of Homeland Security, through Secretary Kristi Noem, issued a public warning that it would prosecute individuals who identify ICE agents online to "the fullest extent of the law." The statement characterized those engaged in identifying agents as criminals "taking the side of vicious cartels and human traffickers." The warning was issued in response to antifa groups in Portland identifying ICE officers.
• Trump administration pursues nationwide voter roll seizures via DOJ lawsuits — Paul W Brown, special agent in charge of the FBI's Atlanta field office, was reportedly removed from his post after expressing concerns about unsubstantiated voter fraud allegations in Fulton County, Georgia, and refusing to carry out searches and seizures of election records. The removal occurred one week before the DOJ executed a search warrant seizing 700 boxes of 2020 election records from the county elections office. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard was present during the raid, prompting Democratic concern about partisan overreach.
• Attorney General Bondi linked voter roll demands to immigration enforcement — The Trump administration has launched a nationwide effort to obtain voter rolls containing sensitive information from nearly every U.S. state, including Georgia, through Department of Justice lawsuits. Experts report little legal basis for the move; three of nearly two dozen DOJ lawsuits have already been dismissed by courts. Election security experts characterize the effort as designed to fuel false claims of fraud and weaken confidence in election results, particularly ahead of the 2026 and 2028 election cycles.
• Tulsi Gabbard, DNI, appears at Fulton County election raid — Attorney General Pam Bondi sent a letter this week to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz linking the Department of Justice's voter roll data demands to the administration's immigration enforcement operations in the state. The letter connected federal voter registration record requests to recent immigration raids, a linkage that had already been cited in one active DOJ voter roll lawsuit.
• — Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, was spotted on site at the Fulton County election office during the FBI raid on Wednesday evening. Her presence prompted widespread outrage and questions about why an intelligence official was involved in a domestic election matter. The Wall Street Journal reported that Gabbard is leading the Trump administration's effort to investigate voter fraud nationwide, raising concerns about the politicization of the intelligence community.

Supporting reports

• Trump threatened prosecution of DOJ officials over 2020 election claims — At the Davos speech, Trump stated that "People will soon be prosecuted for what they did" regarding the 2020 presidential election, which he falsely claimed was rigged. He asserted that DOJ officials and others would face prosecution for refusing to help him overturn the election results. The threat was made one day before former special counsel Jack Smith was scheduled to testify publicly about evidence leading to Trump's indictment for efforts to overturn the 2020 election.
• President Trump threatens prosecution of DOJ officials — During a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Trump claimed that the 2020 U.S. presidential election was rigged and threatened to prosecute Department of Justice officials who did not assist him in overturning the election results. This statement came as former special counsel Jack Smith was set to testify about evidence related to Trump's actions following the election. Trump's remarks indicate a continued effort to undermine the legitimacy of the election and discredit those who oppose him.
• Trump threatened Jack Smith and demanded investigation — After Jack Smith testified before the House Judiciary Committee, Trump's social media account posted a threatening message calling Smith a "deranged animal" who "shouldn't be allowed to practice Law" and stating that if Smith were a Republican, "his license would be taken away from him, and far worse." Trump demanded that the Attorney General investigate Smith's conduct, including his use of witnesses, and characterized the entire investigation as a "Democrat SCAM."
• Trump calls for prosecution of Jack Smith on Truth Social — On Truth Social, President Trump responded to Jack Smith's congressional testimony by calling for Smith to "be prosecuted for his actions" and arguing that "At a minimum, he committed large scale perjury!"
• Jack Smith testifies he expects Trump administration to indict him — During his public testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, former special counsel Jack Smith stated that he believes Trump administration officials will "do everything in their power" to indict him "because they've been ordered to by the president," but added that he "will not be intimidated." Smith also expressed concern about Trump's mass pardons of people who assaulted police officers.

Supporting reports

• Vice President Vance announces White House-based assistant attorney general position reporting directly to president and vice president — Vice President JD Vance announced creation of a new assistant attorney general position with nationwide jurisdiction over fraud investigations, to be based in the White House and answering directly to Vance and President Trump rather than Attorney General Pam Bondi at DOJ headquarters. Vance made the announcement the day after an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, framing Good as part of a "far-left network" and implying the new position would target Trump's political opponents, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

Supporting reports

• DOJ opens criminal investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell — The Trump administration's Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, rooted in his June 2025 Senate testimony about the Fed's headquarters renovation costs. Powell confirmed the subpoena on Sunday and characterized the investigation as part of a pressure campaign linked to the administration's frustration with the Fed's interest rate policy. Several Republican lawmakers, including Senator Thom Tillis, publicly opposed the investigation as an attack on Fed independence.
• DOJ Subpoenas Federal Reserve in Investigation — The Department of Justice has issued a subpoena to the Federal Reserve as part of an investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell. This investigation is reportedly linked to Powell's testimony before the Senate regarding the costs of the Fed's headquarters renovation. The DOJ's actions have sparked criticism from several Republican lawmakers, who view the investigation as an attempt to undermine the Federal Reserve's independence. Powell has confirmed the subpoena and described the investigation as part of a broader pressure campaign by the Trump administration.
• US Attorney's office in DC opened criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell — The US Attorney's office for the District of Columbia opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding the central bank's renovation of its Washington headquarters and whether Powell made false statements to Congress about the project's scope. The inquiry, approved in November by Jeanine Pirro (a Trump ally appointed to run the office), includes analysis of Powell's public statements and examination of spending records. Powell acknowledged receipt of grand jury subpoenas.
• DOJ threatens Federal Reserve with criminal indictment over interest rate policy — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell publicly stated that the Department of Justice threatened criminal charges against the Fed related to a multi-year renovation project of Federal Reserve office buildings. Powell characterized the threat as retaliation for the Fed's decision to set interest rates based on economic conditions rather than presidential preference, stating the threat was "a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the President."

Supporting reports

• Senator Slotkin said she is under federal investigation — Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) said in an interview that federal prosecutors are investigating her for participating in a video with other Democratic lawmakers calling on military members to refuse illegal orders.
• DOJ threatens Federal Reserve with criminal indictment over interest rate policy — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell publicly stated that the Department of Justice threatened criminal charges against the Fed related to a multi-year renovation project of Federal Reserve office buildings. Powell characterized the threat as retaliation for the Fed's decision to set interest rates based on economic conditions rather than presidential preference, stating the threat was "a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the President."
• Federal investigation opened against Michigan senator Elissa Slotkin for video urging troops to refuse illegal orders — Michigan senator Elissa Slotkin announced she is under federal investigation by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia for her participation in a video released in 2025 in which she and five other Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds urged U.S. troops to refuse unlawful orders. The video's message aligns with established military law and constitutional principle. President Trump called the video "seditious behavior by traitors" punishable by death; the White House later clarified he did not seek execution but wanted them "held accountable." Slotkin characterized the investigation as weaponization of federal government to intimidate political opponents.
• Senator Elissa Slotkin faces federal criminal investigation for oath video — Senator Elissa Slotkin is now under federal criminal investigation for appearing in a video urging service members to remember their oath and refuse illegal orders. The investigation represents potential criminalization of speech encouraging military personnel to uphold constitutional obligations and refuse unlawful commands.
• Four additional Democratic lawmakers said they are under investigation — Four additional Democratic lawmakers said they are being investigated by the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia over their participation in a viral video calling on military members to refuse illegal orders.
• Trump DOJ investigates Democratic lawmakers over military video on illegal orders — Three House Democrats—Jason Crow (Colorado), Maggie Goodlander (New Hampshire), and Chrissy Houlahan (Pennsylvania)—confirmed that the U.S. Attorney's Office for D.C., led by Jeanine Pirro, requested interviews regarding their participation in a November video instructing troops they need not comply with illegal orders. The investigation expands to five lawmakers total; the Pentagon also formally censured Senator Mark Kelly and launched administrative proceedings. Trump called the video "seditious" and threatened capital punishment, later walking back but maintaining the lawmakers face "serious jeopardy."

Supporting reports

• Trump claims only his own morality constrains his power — In a January 7, 2026 interview with New York Times reporters, when asked if there are any checks on his power on the world stage, Trump answered: "Yeah, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It's the only thing that can stop me, and that's very good." When asked about international law, Trump stated "I don't need international law" and later said international law compliance "depends what your definition of international law is."
• Trump claimed only his morality limits his power — President Trump told New York Times reporters that as commander-in-chief, he has only one limit on his power: "My own morality. My own mind. It's the only thing that can stop me." He claimed he gets to determine what is legal under international law and seemed to stretch that authority to domestic affairs, saying he was considering getting around a possible Supreme Court decision on tariffs by calling them licensing fees and that he could invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops in the U.S. if he "felt the need to do it."
• Trump declares power constrained only by personal morality, dismisses international law — In a New York Times interview, President Trump stated that his presidential power is limited only by "my own morality, my own mind" and declared "I don't need international law." He acknowledged international law exists but questioned its definition and applicability. Trump emphasized the importance of "ownership" over treaties or leases, referenced ongoing efforts to gain control of Greenland, and dismissed concerns that ousting Venezuela's Maduro would set precedents for Chinese action on Taiwan or Russian control of Ukraine. He expressed confidence Xi Jinping would not seize Taiwan while he is president.

Supporting reports

• Kennedy Center board votes to rename center after Trump — On December 18, 2025, the Kennedy Center board voted unanimously to add Donald Trump's name to the institution, rebranding it as the "Donald J Trump and the John F Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts." Trump had assumed the board chair in February and appointed supporters including Ric Grenell as president. The vote occurred under the new bylaws that excluded ex-officio members. The name change has prompted artist cancellations, congressional opposition, and a lawsuit by Representative Joyce Beatty challenging whether the change requires an act of Congress.
• Trump administration announced renaming of Kennedy Center to Trump-Kennedy Center — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that the Board of the Kennedy Center voted unanimously to rename the facility the "Trump-Kennedy Center" due to Trump's work in saving the building through reconstruction and financial support. The board members who voted for the change include Maria Bartiromo, Pam Bondi, Sergio Gor, Laura Ingraham, Lee Greenwood, Dan Scavino, Usha Vance, and Susie Wiles—all Trump loyalists or administration officials.
• Trump-aligned board votes to rename Kennedy Center to "Trump Kennedy Center" — Trump's hand-picked board at the Kennedy Center voted to rename the facility to the "Trump Kennedy Center," despite lacking Congressional authority to do so. The action represents an attempt to use a federal cultural institution for personal branding without proper legislative authorization.
• Trump announced plan to rename Kennedy Center — Trump announced a plan to rename the Kennedy Center, prompting questions from Senate Majority Leader John Thune about whether the proposal would pass Capitol Hill. Thune indicated uncertainty about the process and acknowledged that both Democrats and some Republicans would likely oppose renaming a historic monument. Trump's crew changed the name on the building's exterior the same day.
• Maria Shriver issued statement opposing Kennedy Center renaming — Maria Shriver, niece of President John F. Kennedy, issued a statement opposing Trump's plan to rename the Kennedy Center. She stated that the center was named in honor of her uncle, who championed the arts and culture, and that renaming it or adding Trump's name is "beyond comprehension" and "beyond wild." She warned that the precedent could lead to renaming other historic monuments like JFK Airport and the Lincoln Memorial.
• Rep. Joyce Beattie disputed unanimous vote claim on Kennedy Center renaming — Representative Joyce Beattie, a Democrat on the Kennedy Center board, disputed White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt's claim that the board voted unanimously to rename the center. Beattie stated she was muted on the call and not allowed to speak or voice her opposition, and that the renaming was not on the agenda and was not consensus. She characterized the action as censorship.

Supporting reports

• FCC Chair Brendan Carr testified that the FCC is under full control of Trump and is not an independent agency. — FCC Chair Brendan Carr testified before the Senate that the FCC is not an independent agency but rather under full control of Trump. Shortly after the testimony, the Trump administration scrubbed any references to the FCC being independent from the agency's website.
• FCC chair declares agency not independent; removes "independent" from mission statement — FCC Chairman Brendan Carr told the Senate Commerce Committee on Wednesday that the FCC is "not an independent agency, formally speaking." Shortly before his testimony, the word "independent" was removed from the FCC's official website mission statement, which had previously described it as "an independent US government agency overseen by Congress." The action raised concerns about Trump administration efforts to exert greater control over independent agencies.

Supporting reports

• Trump began construction on White House ballroom without legal approvals — President Trump has begun construction on a proposed ballroom addition to the White House without securing required legal approvals or permits. The White House has expressed the position that the president does not need permits or permission to tear down buildings, only to construct them. The initial architect selected for the project has stepped aside.
• Department of Justice argues Trump ballroom project must proceed for national security — The Department of Justice argued in court that Trump's ballroom project must go forward for reasons of national security despite a lawsuit filed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation seeking to stop the project without legally required reviews and public input. Secret Service Deputy Director Matthew Quinn told the court that when Trump tore down the East Wing in October, he destroyed security infrastructure, and that any pause in construction would hamper the Secret Service's ability to meet its statutory obligations.
• Federal judge allows Trump White House ballroom construction — A federal judge allowed Trump to move forward with the construction of his new White House ballroom for now. Later, Trump said the price tag of the ballroom would be $400 million, up from his last estimate of $300 million and double the White House's initial estimate.

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• Supreme Court oral arguments on Trump's FTC firing and presidential removal power — The US Supreme Court heard oral arguments on whether President Trump lawfully fired FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter in March 2025. The case challenges the 90-year-old Humphrey's Executor precedent that has protected independent agency heads from at-will presidential removal. Conservative justices signaled support for Trump's "unitary executive" theory, suggesting they may overturn the New Deal-era protection. The ruling could expand presidential power over more than two dozen independent agencies. A decision is expected by June 2026.
• Supreme Court oral arguments on presidential removal power over independent agencies — The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on Trump's assertion that he has complete control over officers in independent agencies established by Congress. Solicitor General John Sauer argued the president must have removal power because "the President must have the power to control and…the one who has the power to remove is the one who…is the person that they have to fear and obey." Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned that allowing a president to fire all scientists, doctors, economists, and PhDs and replace them with loyalists would harm the country. The Court is expected to rule in June, with the right-wing majority appearing poised to grant Trump broad removal authority.

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• Trump announces Biden's autopens invalidate all prior presidential actions — President Trump announced that because former President Joe Biden used an autopen to sign documents, "[a]ny and all Documents, Proclamations, Executive Orders, Memorandums, or Contracts," pardons, and commutations Biden signed are "invalid." Trump claimed no constitutional mechanism exists for a president to erase the actions of a predecessor by fiat. Legal experts note all modern presidents, including Trump, have used autopens, and the Constitution provides no such invalidation power.
• Trump expanded plan to terminate Biden's autopen-signed documents — On Truth Social, Trump doubled down on his plan to terminate all of Biden's executive orders signed by autopen, but expanded the list to include documents, proclamations, memorandums, and contracts. The expansion broadened the scope of retroactive invalidation of Biden administration actions.

Supporting reports

• Trump announces plan to cancel most Biden executive orders based on autopen signature claims — Donald Trump declared via social media that he intends to cancel approximately 92% of Joe Biden's executive orders, claiming baselessly that Biden did not personally authorize them and that White House staff used an autopen signature machine without his approval. Trump alleged Biden was not involved in the autopen process and threatened perjury charges if Biden claimed otherwise. The announcement prompted Republican celebration, including statements from the Heritage Foundation's Oversight Project and House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, though legal experts warned such actions could set problematic precedents.
• Trump announced cancellation of executive orders signed via Autopen — Trump posted that he is "hereby cancelling all Executive Orders, and anything else that was not directly signed by Crooked Joe Biden, because the people who operated the Autopen did so illegally." Trump claimed that if Biden says he was involved in the Autopen process, Biden will be "brought up on charges of perjury." Legal experts noted that perjury charges require false statements made under oath and that presidents now have immunity following Trump's Supreme Court appeal.
• Trump claimed authority to nullify Biden's autopen-signed executive orders — On Truth Social, Trump claimed he will nullify any executive order from the Biden administration signed with an autopen or "anything else that was not directly signed" by Biden himself, and warned that Biden "will be brought up on charges of perjury" if he claims involvement in the autopen process. Trump has admitted to using the autopen himself and lacks legal authority to nullify Biden's pardons, which included his son and Jan. 6 investigators.

Supporting reports

• Rep. Jason Crow detailed Trump's threats to use military unlawfully — Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) appeared on CBS and detailed Trump's threats to use the military in unlawful ways, including sending troops into Chicago, into polling stations, killing terrorists' families, and shooting peaceful protesters. Crow stated that Trump cannot tolerate members of Congress reminding service members of their constitutional duty to obey the law and resorts to threats of violence and arrest.
• Pentagon announces investigation of Senator Mark Kelly for video calling troops to refuse illegal orders — The Pentagon announced an investigation into Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, after he participated in a video with other Democratic lawmakers calling on US troops to refuse unlawful orders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the video was "despicable" and that Kelly's conduct undermines military discipline. The Pentagon cited federal law allowing recall of retired service members to active duty for possible court-martial. Kelly responded that the investigation was meant to intimidate Congress and vowed not to be silenced.
• Defense Department announced investigation of Senator Kelly for alleged misconduct and threatened recall to active duty — The Defense Department posted on social media that it was investigating Senator Mark Kelly following "serious allegations of misconduct" and suggested that Kelly could be recalled to active duty "for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures." This announcement came after Kelly participated in a November 18 video with five other Democratic veterans in Congress warning military and intelligence personnel of their legal right and duty to refuse unlawful orders.
• Department of War initiated review of Senator Mark Kelly for potential court-martial — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that the Department of War has initiated a review of retired Navy Captain Mark Kelly (D-AZ) for potential recall to active duty and court-martial proceedings. The review stems from a video Kelly made with five other Democratic lawmakers informing service members of their constitutional duty to refuse unlawful orders. The DOD statement cited 10 U.S.C. § 688 and 18 U.S.C. § 2387, which prohibits actions intended to interfere with military loyalty, morale, and discipline. Hegseth characterized the video as "despicable" and "seditious."
• Trump posted threats against Senator Mark Kelly — President Trump posted on social media that Senator Mark Kelly should be "arrested, hanged, and put to death" in response to Kelly's video encouraging service members to follow the Constitution and refuse unlawful orders. Kelly responded by reaffirming his oath to the Constitution and stating that Trump's threats would not intimidate him or other members of Congress from holding the administration accountable.
• Pete Hegseth orders Navy investigation into Mark Kelly's video comments — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memorandum to Navy Secretary John Phelan on Tuesday ordering an investigation into "potentially unlawful comments" made by Senator Mark Kelly and fellow Democrats in a social media video encouraging military personnel to refuse unlawful orders. The Pentagon had already announced an investigation on Monday. Hegseth requested a brief by December 10. The group faces FBI counter-terrorism inquiry and potential court-martial proceedings.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth directs Navy review of Senator Kelly — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared a memo directing the Navy secretary to review Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) for "potentially unlawful conduct" related to the viral video where Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers urged military members to resist illegal orders. The memo requested the Navy review be completed and briefed to Hegseth by December 10.
• Defense Secretary threatens Senator with court martial over military dissent video — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened Senator Mark Kelly with court martial after Kelly recorded a video with five Democratic lawmakers warning military members to question unlawful orders, apparently in reference to the Caribbean boat strikes. The threat represents potential retaliation against a senator for encouraging military personnel to uphold constitutional obligations.
• Secretary of Defense Hegseth threatens court martial of Senator Mark Kelly — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court martial Senator Mark Kelly in response to Kelly's video urging military personnel to follow the law and refuse illegal orders. Hegseth called the video "sedition" and made deranged social media posts attacking Kelly's uniform and medals, later claiming Kelly's image was reversed by his phone. Kelly responded that the threat was about intimidation and the media cycle, not law, and refused to be silenced.
• Trump threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly over military discipline video — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly after Kelly released a video with five other Democratic lawmakers urging military members not to follow illegal orders. The video was released in response to the alleged illegal directives issued by Hegseth regarding lethal operations.

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• President Trump designates Commerce officials to exercise control over U.S. Steel through Golden Share agreement with Nippon Steel — President Trump, holding a Class G Preferred Stock ("Golden Share") in U.S. Steel pursuant to a National Security Agreement with Nippon Steel Corporation, designated Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade William Kimmitt as his designee to exercise authorities under the company's Certificate of Incorporation, and appointed David Shapiro, Chief Counsel of the Commerce Department's Investment Accelerator, as the Class G Director of U.S. Steel's board. The designations remain in effect unless Trump directs otherwise.

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• Trump threatens to withhold SNAP benefits unless Democrats capitulate on government funding — On November 4, 2025, President Trump threatened on social media to withhold SNAP (food assistance) benefits to 42 million Americans unless Democrats vote to fund the government. The threat came after the Trump administration had been forced by court rulings to provide emergency funds to keep SNAP operating at 50% capacity during the shutdown. Trump's statement—"Snap benefits will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government"—weaponizes a critical anti-poverty program as leverage in the funding standoff.
• Trump announced withholding SNAP benefits to pressure Democrats on government shutdown — President Trump announced via social media that SNAP benefits for 43 million Americans would be withheld until Democrats agree to reopen the government on Republican terms. This directly contradicted a federal court order from U.S. District Judge John McConnell requiring the administration to fund SNAP using emergency reserves. The White House initially claimed full compliance but Trump's announcement made clear the administration intended to use hunger as political leverage in the shutdown dispute.
• Trump announced refusal to comply with federal court order on SNAP benefits distribution — President Trump posted on Truth Social that he would refuse to follow a federal court order requiring SNAP benefits distribution to nearly 42 million Americans, stating benefits would only be given when "Radical Left Democrats open up govt." The White House later clarified the administration was still sending partial food aid benefits despite the president's threat, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating the administration was "fully complying with the court order."
• Trump defies court order on SNAP benefits — Also on Truth Social, Trump said that SNAP benefits "will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government … and not before!" despite a court order requiring the administration to issue payments.

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• Trump fired National Capital Planning Commission board members and installed loyalists — Trump fired board members of the National Capital Planning Commission and replaced them with his own loyalists, giving Republicans control of the little-known body that has outsized influence over the White House complex. The NCPC raised no public objections to his plans to remodel the White House, allowing Trump to proceed with his ballroom construction project by circumventing normal zoning, permitting, and regulatory structures that govern most real-estate projects in the country.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration demolishes White House East Wing without National Capital Planning Commission approval — The Trump administration completed demolition of the historic White House East Wing to make way for a $300 million privately funded ballroom. The demolition reversed Trump's July promise that no existing infrastructure would be torn down. Construction began without approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, the federal agency with jurisdiction over such projects. The 90,000-square-foot ballroom, designed to accommodate 999 people, is funded by major tech companies, defense contractors, and other corporations seeking government access.
• Trump plans to bulldoze East Wing of the White House for personal use — Trump reportedly plans to bulldoze the East Wing of the White House to construct a personal ballroom, a decision defended by Bessent as a "judgment call" by the president.
• White House demolishes East Wing to construct ballroom — The Trump administration demolished the East Wing of the White House to construct a ballroom. The action was cited as an example of constitutional violations and institutional degradation occurring during the administration's tenure.

Supporting reports

• House Democrats accuse Trump of orchestrating illegal scheme to direct $230m in Treasury funds to himself — Representatives Jamie Raskin and Robert Garcia sent a letter to President Trump on Thursday condemning his plan to use a confidential Department of Justice administrative process to direct Treasury funds to himself personally. Trump claimed the government owes him "a lot of money" for past DOJ investigations, including the Mar-a-Lago search and the 2016 Russian interference probe. The arrangement would allow Trump as president to decide whether Trump as claimant receives taxpayer funds, with potential months of delay before public disclosure.

Supporting reports

• White House demolition of East Wing began without National Capital Planning Commission approval — Demolition of the White House East Wing commenced on October 20, 2025, without formal submission to or approval from the National Capital Planning Commission, the federal agency statutorily required to review major construction and renovation projects on federal property in Washington, D.C. The East Wing, which housed First Lady offices for 48 years and served as a workspace for policy initiatives by multiple First Ladies, is being demolished to make way for a privately funded ballroom estimated at $250–$300 million. President Trump appointed Will Scharf, his White House Staff Secretary, to chair the Commission; Scharf argued the Commission has jurisdiction only over construction, not demolition, creating a procedural loophole.
• National Nuclear Security Administration furloughs 80% of workforce during government shutdown — The National Nuclear Security Administration announced it will furlough approximately 1,400 employees (80% of its workforce) starting Monday, October 20, 2025, due to exhausted carryover funding during the ongoing federal government shutdown. Only 375 essential staff will remain to handle critical safety operations including nuclear material monitoring, equipment maintenance, and reactor safety. The shutdown has now become the longest complete government-wide funding lapse in U.S. history, surpassing the 16-day 2013 shutdown. Most scientific research, stockpile maintenance, and global security programs will be suspended.
• Trump administration begins demolition of White House East Wing for $250 million ballroom construction — Construction crews began demolishing part of the White House East Wing to make way for a $250 million ballroom project announced by Trump in July. Trump announced on Truth Social that "ground has been broken on the White House" and stated the project would be privately funded with zero cost to taxpayers, though it involves unnamed donors and corporate representatives including Amazon, Apple, Meta, Google, Microsoft, Palantir, and Lockheed Martin. The project is expected to be completed by January 2029. Democratic congressman Mark Takano proposed legislation to prohibit federal funds for White House construction during government shutdowns.
• Trump administration begins demolition of White House East Wing without approval — Demolition crews began tearing down the East Wing of the White House to make way for Trump's 90,000-square-foot ballroom. The National Capital Planning Commission, which approves construction of federal buildings, has not signed off on the destruction. In September, the Trump-appointed head of the commission, Will Scharf, claimed the board has no jurisdiction over demolition or site preparation. As of the time of reporting, the White House had not submitted building plans to the National Capital Planning Commission.
• Trump bulldozes East Wing of the White House on October 20 — On Monday, October 20, President Trump began to bulldoze the East Wing of the White House, the People's House. The demolition of a historic structure symbolized the administration's disregard for institutional continuity and public property.
• Trump ordered physical destruction of White House East Wing to construct ballroom — Trump began demolition of the East Wing of the White House to make room for a ballroom styled after his Mar-a-Lago property. The work commenced on the date reported, representing a significant alteration to the historic structure. No congressional authorization or public process was described in the source material.

Supporting reports

• White House authorizes deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members — On Saturday afternoon, a White House spokesperson announced that Trump has "authorized" the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members. Governor Pritzker later stated he had been informed that members of the Texas National Guard would also be deployed to Illinois, further expanding federal military presence in the state without state consent.
• Trump issued presidential memorandum calling 300+ Illinois National Guard into federal service to protect federal personnel and property in Illinois — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on October 4, 2025, directing the Secretary of War to call at least 300 members of the Illinois National Guard into federal service. The memorandum states that federal facilities in Illinois, particularly those supporting ICE and Federal Protective Services, have faced "coordinated assault by violent groups" seeking to obstruct federal law enforcement and impede deportations. Trump determined that regular U.S. forces are insufficient and that the situation warrants mobilization. The National Guard personnel are authorized to perform protective activities the Secretary of War deems necessary to ensure federal law execution, with a 60-day duration or at the Secretary's discretion.
• Trump authorized deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago — Trump authorized the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker called the move unnecessary and a "manufactured performance—not a serious effort to protect public safety," signaling state-level resistance to the federal deployment order.
• Trump administration deploys 300 California National Guard troops to Portland — On Sunday, October 5, blocked from deploying Oregon National Guard troops in Portland by Judge Immergut's ruling, the Trump administration deployed 300 California National Guard troops to Portland instead. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment, characterizing it as "a breathtaking abuse of the law and power" and stating the Trump administration is "unapologetically attacking the rule of law itself and putting into action their dangerous words—ignoring court orders and treating judges, even those appointed by the President himself, as political opponents."
• Trump administration deploys national guard troops to Portland despite judicial order — The Pentagon deployed 200 national guard members from California to Oregon on Sunday, and the Trump administration announced plans to send additional troops from Texas, directly after Judge Immergut's temporary restraining order. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek reported that 101 California national guard members arrived by plane on Saturday night with no formal federal communication and unverified locations. The administration proceeded without state authorization or coordination.
• Trump administration orders Texas national guard deployment to Illinois without state authorization — The Trump administration ordered 400 members of the Texas national guard to deploy to Illinois, Oregon, and other states without communicating with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated he "fully authorized" Trump to deploy the troops. Chicago could see Texas troops deployed by Tuesday or Wednesday as the administration moves to federalize the Illinois national guard.
• Trump authorizes national guard deployment to Chicago — President Trump authorized deployment of 300 Illinois national guard troops to Chicago, citing "violent riots and lawlessness." The deployment follows a border patrol shooting of a woman on Chicago's southwest side during an operation where agents reported being rammed by vehicles. Governor JB Pritzker opposed the move, calling it unnecessary and stating the Pentagon issued an ultimatum to deploy troops or face federal deployment. The action occurs amid an intensified immigration enforcement crackdown by ICE in the city.
• Trump Authorizes Deployment of Illinois National Guard — President Trump authorized the deployment of 300 Illinois National Guard members to assist in protecting federal facilities, following a demand for the state to call up its troops. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker criticized this action as an overreach of federal power.
• Trump administration announces deployment of California national guard to Portland — Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced that approximately 200 federalized members of the California national guard were being reassigned from Los Angeles to Portland, Oregon at the direction of President Trump to support ICE and other federal personnel and protect federal property. This deployment occurred despite prior court orders and without state authorization, following Trump's September 27 announcement of plans to deploy guard troops to Portland.
• Illinois Governor Pritzker called Trump's National Guard deployment an "invasion" — Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated that Trump ordered 400 Texas National Guard members for deployment to Illinois and other locations without any federal officials contacting him directly to discuss or coordinate the action. Pritzker characterized the deployment as "Trump's Invasion," noting it began with federal agents and would include federalized National Guard members against the state's wishes, and called on Texas Governor Abbott to withdraw support and refuse to coordinate.
• Texas Governor Abbott authorized National Guard deployment — Texas Governor Greg Abbott responded to Illinois Governor Pritzker's criticism by stating he fully authorized the President to call up 400 members of the Texas National Guard to ensure safety for federal officials, and argued that either other states must fully enforce protection for federal employees or allow Texas Guard to do so. Abbott asserted the superiority of Texas National Guard training and expertise.
• Trump administration federalized Texas National Guard for deployment to Portland and Chicago — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced the federalization of 2,000 Texas National Guard members, with 400 being deployed to Portland, Oregon and Chicago, Illinois. This action came immediately after a federal judge blocked the federalization of the Oregon National Guard, appearing to circumvent the court order by using troops from another state. The administration characterized this as a response to unrest in those cities.
• National Guard deployment to Chicago area begins — National Guard troops from Texas began arriving at Elwood Army Reserve Center, approximately 50 miles outside Chicago, as part of a Trump administration deployment. By Wednesday, 200 Texas National Guard troops had arrived with another 300 Illinois National Guard troops preparing to deploy. The FAA issued flight restrictions over the center until December 6. Trump administration officials stated troops would protect federal immigration agents and facilities, not assume law enforcement duties, though the deployment proceeded despite objections from Illinois Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson.
• Trump administration deploys national guard troops to Chicago area for immigration enforcement — The Trump administration deployed approximately 500 national guard troops (200 from Texas, 300 from Illinois) to the Chicago area to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities and federal property. The deployment occurred without coordination with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker or Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. A federal judge held a hearing on whether to declare the deployment illegal, with state and city attorneys arguing it violates the Constitution. Trump attacked both officials on social media, saying they "should be in jail."

Supporting reports

• Trump posted support for Project 2025 and Vought's agency cuts — Trump posted on social media that he was meeting with OMB Director Russell Vought to determine which "Democrat Agencies" to cut and whether cuts would be temporary or permanent. Trump explicitly tied himself to "PROJECT 2025 Fame," contradicting his pre-election 2024 assurances to voters that he had nothing to do with Project 2025 and knew nothing about it. An NBC News poll from late September 2024 showed only 4% of voters liked Project 2025, and only 9% of MAGA Republicans supported it.
• Trump admitted Project 2025 was blueprint for his administration — Trump posted that he was meeting with Russ Vought, described as "he of PROJECT 2025 Fame," to determine which "Democrat Agencies" to cut and whether cuts would be temporary or permanent. Trump stated he could not believe Democrats gave him this "unprecedented opportunity." This contradicted his July 2024 post denying any connection to Project 2025, which he had called "disinformation" when it was unpopular in polls.
• Trump announced plans to use shutdown to cut federal agencies — Trump posted that Republicans should use the government shutdown as an opportunity to "clear out dead wood, waste, and fraud" and save "Billions of Dollars." He later stated on OAN that he could cut projects permanently and that "a lot of people are saying I wanted this" shutdown, though he claimed he did not. He characterized cuts as removing "Democrat things."

Supporting reports

• Trump issues Executive Order 14352 determining TikTok divestiture plan qualifies under foreign adversary law, suspends enforcement for 120 days — President Trump signed Executive Order 14352 on September 25, 2025, determining that a proposed divestiture framework for TikTok constitutes a "qualified divestiture" under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The order directs the Attorney General to suspend enforcement of the Act for 120 days and prohibits penalties for any entity's noncompliance during that period or retroactively to the Act's January 19, 2025 effective date. The framework establishes a U.S.-based joint venture majority-owned by American investors, with ByteDance retaining less than 20 percent ownership, subject to data-protection safeguards and algorithm monitoring by U.S. security partners.
• Trump issues executive order determining TikTok divestiture as "qualified" under foreign adversary law, halting enforcement for 120 days — President Trump issued Executive Order 14351 on September 25, 2025, determining that a proposed joint-venture divestiture of TikTok's U.S. operations constitutes a "qualified divestiture" under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The order directs the Attorney General to suspend enforcement of the Act for 120 days and prohibits DOJ from imposing penalties for any noncompliance during that period or retroactively. The new joint venture would be majority-owned by U.S. investors with ByteDance holding less than 20 percent, and would include safeguards on data storage, algorithm control, and monitoring by U.S. security partners.
• President Trump signed Executive Order 14352 establishing a qualified divestiture framework for TikTok operations in the United States. — The White House published Executive Order 14352 on September 25, 2025, directing the Attorney General to suspend enforcement of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act for 120 days to permit completion of a proposed divestiture. The order determines that a framework agreement under which a U.S.-based joint venture (less than 20 percent foreign-owned) would operate TikTok, Lemon8, and CapCut constitutes a "qualified divestiture" under the Act. The order directs DOJ to issue guidance and letters stating no violations occurred and no liability attaches to conduct during the 120-day period or any prior period since the Act's effective date. It also amends the 2020 Divestment Order to condition relief on a CFIUS agreement with investor parties.
• White House issued fact sheet on Trump executive order regarding TikTok divestiture framework — The White House published a fact sheet on September 25, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump that the administration characterizes as "saving TikTok" while addressing national security concerns. The order determines that a proposed divestiture framework—under which TikTok's U.S. operations would be controlled by a new joint-venture company majority-owned by U.S. investors, with ByteDance holding less than 20% and Oracle serving as security provider—constitutes a "qualified divestiture" under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The order directs the Attorney General to delay enforcement of the Act for 120 days to allow the divestiture to proceed. The fact sheet claims the arrangement will generate $178 billion in economic activity over four years.

Supporting reports

• Trump attempts to remove Federal Reserve governor and other non-appointed officials — Trump is attempting to remove dozens of personnel he did not appoint, including a Federal Reserve governor, a top official at the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, prosecutors who investigated him, and leaders across the government including the National Archivist.
• Trump installs second deputy at FBI after souring on first — The White House installed a second deputy at the FBI after becoming dissatisfied with the first, continuing a pattern of rapid personnel changes across agencies.
• Trump pressures Treasury secretary to fire agency's second-in-command — Trump pushed his Treasury secretary to fire the agency's second-in-command, demonstrating continued pressure on cabinet officials to remove personnel who may not align with administration priorities.
• Trump removes acting FEMA administrator over disagreement on agency's continued existence — The White House removed the acting FEMA administrator after he stated the agency should continue to exist, contradicting others in the administration.
• Trump removes IRS director after two months over Treasury Department clash — Trump replaced the head of the IRS less than two months into the job because appointee Billy Long clashed with officials at the Treasury Department. This removal is part of a broader pattern of Trump firing appointees and career officials across multiple agencies.
• Trump removes two DOJ antitrust officials over alleged deal-making with lobbyists — Two top DOJ antitrust officials were removed from their roles after clashing with senior officials at the agency. They accused their colleagues of cutting deals with favored lobbyists. One of the removed officials has publicly questioned the integrity of other DOJ officials.
• Department of Justice launched criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook — The Department of Justice launched a criminal investigation into Lisa Cook, a governor of the U.S. Federal Reserve, for allegedly committing mortgage fraud by claiming two separate properties as her primary residence. Pro Publica reported that three Trump Cabinet members—Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin—have engaged in the same conduct but face no investigation.
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired CDC director Susan Monarez — Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. fired newly confirmed CDC Director Susan Monarez after she refused to preapprove recommendations from a vaccine advisory panel that Kennedy had stacked with anti-vaccine advocates. This action followed Kennedy's earlier purges of thousands of CDC advisors and staffers who did not share his opposition to vaccines.
• Trump fires Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook — President Trump removed Lisa Cook from her position as a Federal Reserve governor. This action raised concerns about central bank independence, as it represents part of a broader pattern of Trump's attacks on the Federal Reserve's autonomy. Trump's nominee to replace Cook stated he would respect Fed independence, but the removal itself signals potential politicization of monetary policy.