Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump's lawyer threatens $5bn lawsuit against Center for American Progress over National Guard report — Donald Trump's personal lawyer, Alejandro Brito, sent a letter to the Center for American Progress (CAP) threatening a $5 billion lawsuit unless the think tank retracts a July 2026 report concluding that National Guard deployments in Washington DC, Memphis, and Los Angeles failed to measurably reduce crime despite costing $1.7 billion. CAP released a statement defending its research as factual analysis protected by the First Amendment and refusing to retract. The threat targets the organization's publication of policy analysis critical of the Trump administration's military deployment strategy.

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• DOJ defends prosecution of James Comey over Instagram seashell post — The US Department of Justice filed court documents defending its prosecution of former FBI director James Comey, arguing that his May 2025 Instagram post featuring seashells arranged to read "8647" could reasonably be interpreted as a threat against President Trump. Prosecutors claimed there is "no serious dispute" that the image constituted a coded message meaning "kill" or "get rid of" the president. Comey was indicted in April 2026 on charges of making a threat against the US president and transmitting it across state lines. Comey's legal team argues the post is protected speech and seeks dismissal on grounds of vindictive and selective prosecution.

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• FBI raid of Ohio Organizing Collaborative, voting rights group — FBI agents raided the Cleveland office of the Ohio Organizing Collaborative, a grassroots voter registration organization, seizing computers and phones. Agents also visited homes of affiliated individuals throughout Ohio and conducted interviews. The raid appeared to examine accusations related to the 2024 election, though specifics were unclear. The action occurred amid a broader pattern of federal voter fraud investigations and came approximately one month after the acting attorney general's office instructed prosecutors to prioritize voter fraud cases.
• FBI raids voter registration organization office in Ohio — The FBI raided the office of a voter registration promotion group in Ohio and visited the homes of individuals associated with the organization.

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• Attorney General announces indictment of former FBI Director James Comey — Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that a federal grand jury in North Carolina had indicted former FBI Director James Comey with threatening Trump. The charges stemmed from an Instagram post Comey made of seashells arranged to spell "86 47," which he deleted and apologized for, stating he was unaware the number could convey violent intent. The DOJ completed its investigation nearly a year later and chose to announce the charges days after the White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting.
• Acting Attorney General Blanche announces DOJ evidence in Comey case — On May 3, 2026, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the Department of Justice has "evidence of all sorts" from an 11-month investigation into James Comey that it will present at trial. This statement came as part of the prosecution of Comey on charges related to the Instagram seashell post, which legal experts characterized as a weak case designed to appease Trump.
• Attorney General Blanche addressed selective prosecution of '86 47' posts. — Attorney General Todd Blanche was asked on NBC whether other people would be prosecuted for posting "86 47" or only James Comey. Blanche responded that the phrase is "posted constantly" and "used constantly," stating that "every single case depends on the investigation that is done."

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• FBI investigates New York Times reporter after critical coverage of FBI Director Patel — The New York Times reported that Trump's FBI launched an investigation into reporter Elizabeth Williamson last month after she published an article detailing FBI Director Kash Patel's use of an agency SWAT team to escort his girlfriend. Times executive editor Joseph Kahn called the probe "alarming" and "unconstitutional," characterizing it as an attempt to "criminalize routine reporting" and to "prevent journalists from scrutinizing" the Trump administration.
• FBI investigated New York Times reporter for article about Kash Patel — The FBI opened an investigation into New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson after she published an article about FBI Director Kash Patel using bureau personnel to provide his girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins, with government security and transportation. Agents interviewed Wilkins, queried databases for information on Williamson, and recommended determining whether Williamson violated federal stalking laws. DOJ officials expressed concern the inquiry was retaliation for the article. The FBI later stated investigators were concerned the reporter's "aggressive reporting techniques crossed lines of stalking." NYT Executive Editor Joseph Kahn called the action "a blatant violation of Elizabeth's First Amendment rights" and "unconstitutional."
• Kash Patel denied using FBI to retaliate against reporter — FBI Director Kash Patel appeared on Sean Hannity's Fox News program and denied allegations that he used the FBI to investigate reporter Elizabeth Williamson in retaliation for her article about his girlfriend receiving government security. Patel claimed the reporter's story posed "a direct threat of life" to his girlfriend and characterized himself and his associates as "tough."

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• Justice Department settles lawsuit alleging Biden State Department social media censorship — The Department of Justice announced settlement of litigation alleging the Biden State Department censored disfavored speech through its Global Engagement Center by funding private companies' development of technologies to suppress protected speech online. The settlement implements President Trump's Executive Order on "Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship." The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas had denied the government's motions to dismiss and transfer venue, finding good cause for discovery. The settlement avoids continued litigation.

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• FBI investigated New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson over story on Kash Patel's girlfriend — The FBI opened an investigation into New York Times reporter Elizabeth Williamson in March 2026 following her February 28 article alleging that FBI Director Kash Patel used federal resources to provide protection and transportation for his girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins. FBI agents searched databases for details about Williamson and suggested assessing whether her reporting violated federal stalking laws. Patel denied the investigation on Fox News, claiming the article posed a direct threat to his girlfriend. The Times' executive editor condemned the FBI's actions as unconstitutional and a violation of First Amendment rights.

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• Independent journalist Brixton Hughes arrested in connection with Minnesota church protest — Brixton Hughes, identified as an independent journalist, was arrested on Friday morning in connection with the January 18 protest at Cities Church in St. Paul. Hughes posted on Facebook "Feds at my door" following the arrest. Hughes was among 25 people arrested as part of the DOJ's expanded prosecution of protest participants. Two other journalists, Don Lemon and Georgia Fort, were previously charged over the same protest, though they maintained they were covering it as reporters rather than participating.

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• Trump posted demands to imprison political opponents over 2020 election — Trump posted demands that political opponents be imprisoned over the 2020 election, shared fabricated electoral maps to claim a victory that did not occur, amplified calls to prosecute investigators like Jack Smith, and circulated communications suggesting federal regulators should pressure private companies like Apple to alter its News app in ways favorable to him.

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• Judge declares mistrial in Texas ICE protest terrorism case over defense attorney's civil rights shirt — US District Judge Mark Pittman, a Trump appointee, declared a mistrial in a federal case against nine protesters charged with terrorism for a July 4 demonstration at an ICE detention facility near Fort Worth. Pittam halted jury selection after defense attorney MarQuetta Clayton wore a shirt displaying civil rights movement imagery, claiming it could bias jurors. Clayton had been visible in court all day before Pittman intervened only when she began questioning potential jurors. The mistrial requires a complete restart with a new jury panel.

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• Grand Jury Unanimously Rejects DOJ Indictment of Six Democratic Lawmakers — A federal grand jury unanimously rejected the Trump administration's effort to indict six Democratic lawmakers over their involvement in a viral video urging military members to refuse illegal orders. According to NBC News, not a single grand juror found that the Justice Department met the probable cause threshold. The rejection represents a rare judicial check on the administration's use of law enforcement to target political opponents, though Senator Mark Kelly characterized the attempt itself as a "master alarm flashing for our democracy."
• Grand jury refuses to indict six Democratic members of Congress for military loyalty video — A Washington, D.C. grand jury refused to indict six Democratic members of Congress—Senators Mark Kelly (AZ), Elissa Slotkin (MI), and Representatives Jason Crow (CO), Chris Deluzio (PA), Maggie Goodlander (NH), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA)—all military veterans or former intelligence officials, for violating a federal statute criminalizing interference with military loyalty, morale, or discipline. The members had recorded a video in November reminding service members they must refuse illegal orders. Trump characterized the conduct as "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!" The New York Times called the grand jury's refusal "a remarkable rebuke" of the administration's attempts to harass perceived opponents.
• Grand jury declined to indict Democratic senators for military refusal statement — On 11 February 2026, a grand jury failed to indict Democratic Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona and five other Democrats for releasing a video statement encouraging military members to "refuse illegal orders." The DOJ's prosecution attempt was abandoned after the grand jury declined to indict, despite Trump labeling the Democrats' message "seditious behavior punishable by death."
• Grand jury declines to indict six Democratic lawmakers over military dissent video — A Washington DC grand jury declined to indict six Democratic lawmakers—Elissa Slotkin, Mark Kelly, Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, and Chrissy Houlahan—who created a video urging troops to refuse illegal orders. Federal prosecutors, acting at Trump's direction, had sought indictment. Trump called the video "seditious" and "punishable by death." Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth censured Kelly and attempted to reduce his rank and pension. Kelly filed a lawsuit against Hegseth claiming the video was protected speech.
• Grand jury declines to indict six Democratic lawmakers over military video — A federal grand jury in Washington DC declined to indict six Democratic members of Congress—Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin, and House members Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Chris Deluzio—who posted a video urging service members to resist unlawful orders. The Trump administration, through U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, had sought indictment on charges the lawmakers characterized as politically motivated. Kelly and Slotkin held a press conference condemning the prosecution attempt as weaponization of the Justice Department and an authoritarian tactic to silence dissent.
• Federal grand jury refuses to indict Democratic lawmakers for speech — A federal grand jury refused to indict Senator Mark Kelly and other Democratic lawmakers for their speech regarding constitutional obligations and illegal orders. Senator Elissa Slotkin warned that the DOJ may attempt to indict them again.
• DOJ attempted to indict six Democratic lawmakers; grand jury rejected indictment — The Department of Justice attempted to secure an indictment against six Democratic lawmakers over a military video urging members of the military and intelligence communities to uphold their oaths. A federal grand jury unanimously rejected the prosecution's case, finding the government had not met the threshold of probable cause. The DOJ lawyers who brought the case were political appointees without prior federal prosecution experience. Former federal prosecutors noted this outcome was extraordinarily rare.

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• Federal magistrate judge previously rejected arrest warrant for Don Lemon — A federal magistrate judge took the unusual step of declining to sign off on an arrest warrant for Don Lemon, finding there was "no evidence" of criminal behavior in his journalistic work at the Minnesota church protest. The decision reportedly enraged Attorney General Pam Bondi. Despite this judicial rejection, the DOJ proceeded to arrest and charge Lemon anyway.
• Don Lemon Arrested for Violating FACE Act — Federal agents arrested independent journalist Don Lemon in Minneapolis, charging him with violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and conspiring to hurt the exercise of rights. The charges stem from Lemon's filming of a protest at a church service. Previous attempts by federal prosecutors to charge him were blocked by a magistrate judge and a federal judge. The administration's actions are seen as an attempt to intimidate independent journalists and suppress coverage of federal authority.
• Don Lemon arrested; Trump had made 10 posts attacking him — Don Lemon was arrested. Deputy AG Todd Blanche claimed the president had "never even thought of Don Lemon" when asked if the arrest was intended to make an example of someone the president had sparred with. However, a search of Trump's Truth Social account revealed Trump made 10 nasty posts about Lemon over the past three years, with several recent posts calling him a "sleazebag."

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• 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.

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• FBI Director Kash Patel launches investigation into Signal group chats used by protesters — FBI Director Kash Patel announced on January 26 that he launched an investigation into Signal group chats used by protesters in Minnesota to share information about federal immigration agents, including their locations and license plate numbers. The move targets legally obtained information and the act of recording law enforcement officials, both protected by the First Amendment.
• Justice Department appeals to Eighth Circuit after judge declines to issue arrest warrants for CNN anchor and protesters — Federal prosecutors sought Chief Judge Schiltz's assistance in arresting former CNN anchor Don Lemon and others linked to an anti-ICE church protest. After Schiltz declined to overturn a magistrate's denial of arrest warrants, the Justice Department appealed directly to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. The circuit court rejected the government's request, prompting Schiltz to write letters criticizing the Justice Department's approach and highlighting the flood of "illegal" detention cases overwhelming Minnesota courts.
• FBI director announced investigation of Signal chats of Minneapolis observers — FBI Director Kash Patel told a right-wing podcaster that the FBI will investigate Signal chats of those organized in Minneapolis to observe and record federal agents, to determine if they endangered federal agents. Podcaster Benny Johnson suggested the chats were "coordinated infrastructure" and asked the FBI to "take a crack at trying to get rid of this infrastructure the way they approach the mob or cartels or other terrorist networks."
• TikTok suppresses anti-ICE videos following Oracle acquisition — Following TikTok's acquisition by an Oracle-led consortium in late January 2026, users reported inability to upload videos critical of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Law professor Stephen Vladeck reported his anti-ICE video remained "under review" for nine hours; comedian Megan Stalter and California State Sen. Scott Wiener also reported suppression. TikTok attributed the issue to a data center outage, but the timing coincided with Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison's known Trump loyalty, raising concerns about state influence over the platform's content moderation.
• Federal agents arrested journalist Don Lemon on FACE Act and civil rights conspiracy charges — More than two dozen federal agents arrested independent journalist Don Lemon late on January 29, charging him with violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and conspiring to hurt the exercise of rights—a Reconstruction-era law originally used against the Ku Klux Klan. Lemon had filmed protesters disrupting a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota, on January 18 at a white nationalist church with ties to the Trump administration. A magistrate judge and federal judge had both refused to issue warrants; the administration then sought indictment via federal grand jury. Lemon stated he would plead not guilty and continue his journalism.
• Federal agents arrest Don Lemon and three journalists — On January 29, federal agents arrested Don Lemon and three other journalists in relation to their coverage of an anti-ICE protest inside a St. Paul, Minnesota church. Lemon has been charged with conspiring to deprive others of their civil rights and violating the FACE Act by allegedly obstructing access to a house of worship. The arrests come one week after a federal magistrate judge rejected the Justice Department's initial request to bring charges. Lemon's lawyer Abbe Lowell called the move an "unprecedented attack on the First Amendment" and a "transparent attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration."
• Federal magistrate and district judge refused to issue arrest warrants for Don Lemon — A federal magistrate judge refused to issue a warrant for Don Lemon and his producer, stating prosecutors had not shown evidence justifying arrest. When the administration asked a federal judge to overturn that decision, the judge also refused, calling the request "unprecedented." The administration then escalated the case to the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, which also refused to intervene.
• DOJ charges Don Lemon and three others with civil rights crimes related to Minnesota church protest — The Department of Justice charged former CNN anchor Don Lemon and three others with federal civil rights crimes, alleging they interfered with religious freedom at a church in Minnesota earlier in January. Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles on Thursday while covering the Grammy Awards and released Friday. The charges also invoked the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. A federal magistrate judge had previously declined to sign an arrest warrant for Lemon, but the DOJ proceeded with charges anyway. The White House celebrated the arrest on social media.
• Don Lemon arrested on charges connected to Minnesota church protest — Ex-CNN anchor Don Lemon, 59, was arrested on charges related to a Minnesota church protest. Lemon, who was terminated by CNN in 2023 following allegations of problematic behavior toward female colleagues and controversial on-air remarks, has since worked as an independent journalist on YouTube. The arrest marks a significant development in his career trajectory following his departure from mainstream media.
• Federal agents arrest journalist Georgia Fort for covering ICE protest at Minnesota church — Georgia Fort, an independent Minnesota journalist, was arrested at her home on January 30 after covering a January 18 protest at St. Paul's Cities church, where a pastor reportedly works for ICE. Fort was charged alongside Don Lemon under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act (FACE Act) and conspiracy statutes—charges experts call unprecedented against journalists. The DOJ pursued the case aggressively after a federal judge and appeals court initially refused to charge the journalists; a grand jury eventually secured an indictment. Fort livestreamed her arrest and has since been unable to cover related stories due to legal and safety concerns.
• Federal agents conduct search of Fort's home and question her children — When federal agents arrested Georgia Fort at her home on January 30, approximately two dozen agents remained outside for hours after her arrest. As Fort's family attempted to leave, agents stopped them in the driveway and questioned her children about whether they possessed her laptop or cellphone. Fort's daughters, aged 17, 8, and 7, were terrified by the encounter. The youngest daughter now discusses ICE daily; the oldest has experienced nightmares. Fort stated agents could have waited until children left for school and questioned why so many agents were needed to arrest a journalist.
• Journalist Don Lemon arrested by Trump administration after covering anti-ICE protest — Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested on January 30, 2026, by federal agents at a Los Angeles hotel while covering the Grammy Awards. The Trump administration obtained a federal grand jury indictment against Lemon, independent journalist Georgia Fort, and others on charges of conspiracy and interfering with worshippers' constitutional rights during an anti-immigration enforcement protest at a Minnesota church on January 18. A federal magistrate judge had previously refused to sign an arrest warrant for Lemon. On February 8, Lemon spoke publicly about the arrest, characterizing it as an attack on press freedom and warning that democracy becomes "hollow" when the First Amendment is threatened.
• Federal agents arrested journalist Georgia Fort and two protest participants — Federal agents arrested independent journalist Georgia Fort of Minnesota, along with two protest participants, Trahern Jeen Crews and Jamael Lydell Lundy, in connection with the January 18 church protest in St. Paul. All four people arrested in the past 24 hours are Black.
• Don Lemon arrested on federal civil rights charges — Former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested by federal authorities and charged with federal civil rights crimes in connection with a protest at a Minnesota church service earlier in January. The Department of Homeland Security stated Lemon was charged with conspiracy and interfering with the First Amendment rights of worshipers. His attorney Abbe Lowell stated Lemon's "constitutionally protected work in Minneapolis was no different than what he has always done" and characterized the arrest as "an unprecedented attack on the first amendment." Career DOJ prosecutors in Minnesota and Louisiana refused to be involved in charging Lemon and other journalists who covered the Minneapolis church protests, believing the evidence does not support the charges.

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• Federal judge orders release of three activists arrested at anti-ICE church protest in St Paul — Nekima Levy Armstrong, Chauntyll Allen, and William Kelly were arrested during an anti-ICE demonstration that disrupted Sunday church services in St Paul, Minnesota. A federal judge ordered their release on Friday, ruling the government failed to meet its burden for detention. The ruling came after the White House posted a digitally altered image of Armstrong's arrest on social media, falsifying her appearance to portray her as crying and darkening her skin, which was later exposed by news outlets.

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• Attorney General Bondi announced arrests of church protest organizers — Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest of Nekima Levy Armstrong, whom she characterized as having "allegedly played a key role in organizing the coordinated attack on Cities Church in St. Paul." Bondi later announced a second arrest of Chauntyll Louisa Allen. Bondi stated the arrests were made "at my direction" and emphasized that the administration does not tolerate "attacks on places of worship."
• DOJ filed criminal complaints against church protest participants — The Department of Justice filed criminal complaints against seven protesters who entered St. Paul's Cities Church in Minnesota and interrupted a service. Arrests were made throughout the day. The DOJ also attempted to charge journalist Don Lemon, but a federal magistrate judge refused to sign the complaint, requiring the DOJ to pursue a grand jury indictment if it wishes to proceed against Lemon.
• Three arrested for anti-ICE protest at Minnesota church — Three people—Nekima Levy Armstrong, Chauntyll Louisa Allen, and William Kelly—were arrested on Thursday in connection with a protest at Cities church in St Paul, Minnesota on Sunday. Demonstrators had alleged that pastor David Easterwood was the acting field director of the St Paul ICE office. Armstrong was charged under a statute criminalizing conspiracy to block someone from exercising civil rights. The White House and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem celebrated the arrest on social media.

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• 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."

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• White House takes control of Justice Department X account — The White House took over the X account of the Justice Department on December 23. On the same day, that account posted a message claiming that accusations in the Epstein files are "unfounded and false."
• Trump White House assumed control of DOJ social media accounts — Following bizarre exchanges on the DOJ's official social media account, reporting from Axios revealed that the Trump White House has assumed direct control over the Department of Justice's social media accounts. The article notes this explains the unprofessional tone of the exchanges and raises concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department.

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• White House takes control of Justice Department X account — The White House took over the X account of the Justice Department on December 23. On the same day, that account posted a message claiming that accusations in the Epstein files are "unfounded and false."

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• Attorney General issues memo directing prosecution of anti-ICE activism as domestic terrorism — On December 4, the U.S. Attorney General's office issued a memo to federal prosecutors directing them to prosecute conduct under domestic terrorism statutes, explicitly listing "opposition to immigration enforcement," "violent efforts to shut down immigration enforcement," and "extreme views in favor of mass migration and open borders" as potential terrorist ideologies. The memo also directs prosecution of "picketing or parading with intent to obstruct the administration of justice" and instructs federal law enforcement to share "Antifa" files with the FBI, effectively criminalizing protest and political opposition.
• Pam Bondi directs law enforcement to investigate antifa groups for tax crimes — US Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a memo to all law enforcement agencies and prosecutors instructing them to investigate antifa and other groups designated as domestic terrorists, with specific direction to search for tax crimes. The memo also ordered federal agencies to review files for antifa-related intelligence within 14 days and directed the FBI to compile a list of domestic terror groups. The action implements Trump's September executive order designating antifa as a domestic terrorism organization and signals efforts to revoke tax-exempt status of left-wing groups.

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• Miller directs visa revocations targeting pro-Palestinian academics and Gaza war critics — John Armstrong, senior bureau official for consular affairs, testified in court that Stephen Miller personally held "at least a dozen" conversations directing visa revocations for pro-Palestinian academics, often identified by the website Canary Mission. Miller also lobbied for visa revocations targeting critics of Israel's Gaza war and conservative pundit Charlie Kirk. These actions use visa authority as a tool for political retaliation and suppression of dissent.

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• Trump posted that criticism of his trip constitutes treason. — Trump posted on Truth Social that Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's characterization of Trump's China trip as "a total dud" was "almost treasonous," stating "If you hurt Trump's feelings it is now treason." The post equates political criticism with the constitutional crime of treason.
• Trump posted that Joe Biden should be locked up and called him a criminal. — Trump posted on Truth Social that former President Joe Biden "is a CRIMINAL AND SHOULD BE IN JAIL. A MAJOR LOWLIFE AND FAILURE. An ugly person, both inside and out!" and stated "I beat him badly." The post represents a continuation of Trump's rhetoric calling for criminal prosecution of a political opponent.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration directs DOJ to investigate George Soros and Open Society Foundations — The Trump administration, through Attorney General Pam Bondi and President Trump, ordered a Department of Justice investigation into billionaire philanthropist George Soros and the Open Society Foundations (OSF), alleging without evidence that they finance "leftwing terrorism" and "professional anarchists and agitators." The New York Times reported the DOJ had directed prosecutors to consider possible charges under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). Trump named Soros and Reid Hoffman as targets in the Oval Office, stating "Soros, he's at the top of everything." Soros's office denied all allegations as "100% false."

Supporting reports

• Executive order designating Antifa as domestic terrorist organization — The President issued an executive order on September 22, 2025, designating Antifa as a "domestic terrorist organization." The order characterizes Antifa as a militarist, anarchist enterprise engaged in coordinated violence, armed standoffs with law enforcement, organized riots, and suppression of political speech. It directs all executive departments and agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle illegal operations conducted by Antifa or persons acting on its behalf, including prosecutorial actions against those funding such operations.
• Trump signs executive order designating antifa as domestic terrorist organization — President Trump signed an executive order on September 22, 2025, designating antifa as a "domestic terrorist organization." The order characterizes antifa as a "militarist, anarchist enterprise" calling for overthrow of the U.S. government. Trump announced the move via Truth Social the previous week, citing the killing of far-right commentator Charlie Kirk on September 10 as justification, though no evidence links Kirk's suspected assassin to antifa. Legal experts note no statutory framework exists for domestic terrorist designations due to First Amendment concerns, and antifa operates as a decentralized ideology rather than a formal organization.
• Trump designated "antifa" as a domestic terrorist organization via executive order — Trump issued an executive order designating "antifa"—short for "antifascists"—as a "MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION," characterizing protesters standing against administration policies as attempting to "overthrow the United States Government, law enforcement authorities, and our system of law." The order claimed they coordinate to riot, assault law enforcement, and dox political figures and activists.
• Trump signed executive order designating Antifa as terrorist organization — On September 22, President Trump signed an executive order designating "Antifa" as "a major terrorist organization." Three days later he called demonstrators in Portland "professional agitators and anarchists." The order came amid ongoing protests at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Portland.
• Trump issues executive order designating Antifa as domestic terrorist organization — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on September 22, 2025, formally designating Antifa as a "domestic terrorist organization." The order characterizes Antifa as a "militarist, anarchist enterprise" that uses violence and terrorism to obstruct federal law enforcement and suppress political activity. It directs all relevant executive departments and agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle illegal operations conducted by Antifa or persons acting on its behalf, including prosecutorial action against those funding such operations.
• White House issues executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization — President Trump signed an executive order on September 22, 2025, designating Antifa as a "domestic terrorist organization." The order characterizes Antifa as a "militarist, anarchist enterprise" that uses violence and terrorism to obstruct federal law enforcement and suppress political activity. It directs all executive departments and agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle illegal operations conducted by Antifa or persons acting on its behalf, including prosecutorial actions against those who fund such operations.
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order designating Antifa as domestic terrorist organization — The White House published a fact sheet on September 22, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. The order directs federal agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle operations and funding sources associated with Antifa. The fact sheet characterizes Antifa as a "militarist, anarchist enterprise" engaged in political violence, armed standoffs, riots, and assaults on law enforcement, and claims a 1000% increase in assaults on ICE officers.
• Trump signs executive order designating "antifa" as domestic terrorist organization — Trump signed an executive order designating "antifa" as a domestic terrorist organization, despite "antifa" being a decentralized anti-fascist movement without formal organization, leadership, or membership. The order is legally problematic because the government cannot legally designate domestic groups as terrorist organizations. The order is broadly written, targeting those involved in "armed standoffs with law enforcement, organized riots, violent assaults on ICE and other law enforcement officers, and routine doxing of and other threats against political figures and activists." As written, the order could criminalize anyone protesting or filming ICE officers as a domestic terrorist.
• White House issues release framing Antifa designation as domestic terrorist organization — The White House issued a promotional release on September 22, 2025, asserting that President Trump "designated Antifa — a network of Radical Left terrorists" as a domestic terrorist organization. The release catalogs alleged violent incidents attributed to Antifa and left-wing actors spanning 2017–2025, including attacks on ICE facilities, bombings, riots, and assassinations. The document frames these acts as evidence of an "epidemic of Radical Left violence" and positions the designation as a response to domestic terrorism. No separate executive order or formal instrument text is attached to this release.

Supporting reports

• Trump demands DOJ prosecute Comey, James, and Schiff on Truth Social — On September 20, 2025, Trump posted on Truth Social demanding that Attorney General Pam Bondi bring charges against former FBI director James Comey, New York attorney general Letitia James, and California senator Adam Schiff. Trump stated "We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility" and "JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!" The post represents direct presidential pressure on the justice department to prosecute political opponents.
• Trump posts demand for prosecution of political opponents on social media — On September 20, Trump posted a message on social media apparently intended privately for Attorney General Pam Bondi, demanding prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Senator Adam Schiff. Trump wrote: "We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!" The posting violated the Presidential Records Act, which requires preservation of presidential communications.
• Trump posts message to Bondi demanding Comey indictment — On September 20, 2025, President Trump posted a message on social media apparently intended as a private communication to Attorney General Pam Bondi, demanding that the Justice Department indict Comey and others. The message was posted publicly.
• Trump threatened to fire AG Bondi if she did not indict political enemies — Trump posted on Truth Social threatening AG Pam Bondi with removal if she did not immediately indict his political opponents, specifically naming former FBI Director James Comey and Rep. Adam Schiff. He stated "JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!" and demanded action against those he claimed were "guilty as hell." The posts were framed as pressure on Bondi to accelerate prosecutions of Trump's perceived enemies.
• Trump publicly pressures Attorney General to prosecute political enemies — Trump posted on Truth Social demanding that Attorney General Pam Bondi prosecute his political opponents, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, former FBI Director James Comey, and Senator Adam Schiff. Trump wrote that "We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility" and demanded "JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!" The posts came as the Justice Department was being restructured to remove career prosecutors resisting political pressure.
• Trump Publicly Pressures Attorney General to Prosecute Political Enemies — On September 20, 2025, President Trump accidentally posted a private message intended for Attorney General Pam Bondi on Truth Social, revealing his direct pressure on her to prosecute political opponents, including James Comey and Letitia James. The message, visible to approximately 10.8 million followers before being deleted, expressed frustration over perceived inaction and demanded immediate justice. Following the post, both Comey and James were indicted. This incident highlights the President's use of social media to influence legal proceedings against his adversaries.
• Trump claimed he fired Siebert and pressured Attorney General Bondi for prosecutions — On Saturday morning, Trump posted on social media that Siebert "didn't quit, I fired him." In the evening, Trump posted what appeared to be a direct message to Attorney General Pam Bondi demanding prosecution of his political opponents, stating: "We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!" Trump explicitly demanded action against James Comey, Adam Schiff, and Letitia James.
• Trump calls for DOJ action against political opponents; FCC threatens ABC over Kimmel criticism — Trump posted on social media demanding that Attorney General Pam Bondi pursue legal action against Democratic Senator Adam Schiff and New York Attorney General Letitia James on mortgage fraud allegations, despite a federal prosecutor's resignation after finding insufficient evidence. Simultaneously, FCC Chair Brendan Carr threatened to revoke ABC's broadcast licenses after Jimmy Kimmel criticized the administration's response to Charlie Kirk's death, prompting ABC to pull Kimmel's show indefinitely. Democratic leaders warned these actions constitute a path toward dictatorship.