Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump attempts to fire Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook — In August 2025, President Trump attempted to fire Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook without cause. The Supreme Court later ruled in a separate decision that Trump's firing of Cook was unconstitutional, distinguishing the Federal Reserve from other independent agencies and preserving statutory protections for Fed board members.

Supporting reports

• Southern Poverty Law Center publishes report on ICE recruitment using nationalist and antisemitic imagery — In August 2025, the Southern Poverty Law Center published a report criticizing ICE for using graphics and messaging in their recruitment campaign that ranged from "overt nationalist and antisemitic imagery." The report documented concerning patterns in ICE's recruitment strategy and demographic targeting, raising alarms about the ideological composition of new hires.

Supporting reports

• FBI officials directed to redact Trump's name from Epstein files in response to FOIA requests — Bloomberg reported that senior officials at the FBI's Record/Information Dissemination Section were instructed to redact Trump's name from Epstein investigation documents in preparation for public release under FOIA. Michael Seidel, the section chief who had worked at the FBI for 14 years, vocally opposed the directive and was subsequently told he could either retire or be fired; he chose retirement. The redactions were applied despite Trump being identified in numerous documents during the federal investigation launched in 2006.

Supporting reports

• Trump fired commissioner of labor statistics for announcing job growth slowdown — President Trump fired the commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Friday after the agency released a jobs report showing dramatic slowdown in job growth. The firing occurred after the commissioner announced official economic data that contradicted Trump's claims about the strength of the economy. Trump had alleged the commissioner rigged the numbers to make him look bad, a claim former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and other economists rejected as implausible given the statistical procedures involved.
• Trump administration fires BLS commissioner Erika McEntarfer over disputed job statistics — The Trump administration fired Erika McEntarfer, commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, following the release of July employment data showing only 73,000 jobs added—far below expectations—and downward revisions of 285,000 jobs for prior months. White House officials defended the dismissal on Sunday political shows, with Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stating the president had concerns about data reliability. Former BLS Commissioner William Beach warned the firing would undermine confidence in U.S. economic data, while economist Larry Summers compared it to authoritarian tactics.
• White House issues fact sheet attacking BLS credibility and former Biden-appointed commissioner — The White House published a fact sheet titled "BLS Has Lengthy History of Inaccuracies, Incompetence" on August 1, 2025, attacking the Bureau of Labor Statistics and its former Commissioner Erika McEntarfer. The document compiles allegations of overstated jobs numbers, technical errors, and data leaks, citing news reports and congressional correspondence. It asserts that BLS revisions totaling over 800,000 jobs influenced Federal Reserve policy and that financial firms received advance access to sensitive employment data. The fact sheet frames these claims as evidence of institutional failure eroding public trust.
• July jobs report shows 73,000 jobs added; May and June figures revised downward by 258,000 combined — The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the July employment report showing only 73,000 jobs added, well below estimates. Prior months were revised sharply lower: June fell from 147,000 to a lower figure, and May was revised down by 125,000, for a combined downward revision of 258,000 jobs. The unemployment rate rose to 4.2%. Health care and social assistance accounted for approximately 94% of job growth, with most other sectors showing weakness or contraction.
• Trump fired Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner Erika McEntarfer — President Trump dismissed Dr. Erika McEntarfer, commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, after the agency released a jobs report showing only 73,000 new jobs added in July—far below the 115,000 economists predicted—and revealing that May and June job figures had been significantly overestimated (May revised down 87% from 144,000 to 19,000; June revised down 90% from 147,000 to 14,000). Trump claimed on Truth Social that the report was "RIGGED" to make Republicans and himself "look bad," despite U.S. economic statistics being widely regarded as a nonpartisan gold standard. McEntarfer had served in various roles under multiple administrations.
• Trump claims jobs report was rigged and announces firing of Labor Statistics Commissioner — Trump posted on social media that the jobs report was "rigged" to make Republicans look bad. He then announced he was firing Dr. Erika McEntarfer, the Commissioner of Labor Statistics, whom he identified as a Biden appointee, and stated he would replace her with someone "much more competent and qualified." Trump directed his team to remove her "immediately."

Supporting reports

• Trump issues executive order declaring crime emergency in Washington DC — In August 2025, Trump issued an executive order declaring a crime emergency in Washington DC, despite the Department of Justice reporting that violent crime in the district was at a 30-year low. Within a month, more than 2,300 national guard troops from eight states and the district were deployed to patrol under the army secretary's command, with hundreds of federal agents also deployed to assist them.
• Trump administration deploys National Guard to clear Washington DC homeless camps — In August 2025, the Trump administration sent the National Guard into Washington DC, in part to clear homeless encampments as part of a broader crackdown on visible homelessness. Local reports indicate unhoused people are being moved around rather than housed, at an estimated cost of $1 million per day, with no tracking of outcomes.
• Trump declares public safety emergency in Washington DC and deploys National Guard — Trump held a press conference flanked by cabinet members to declare a "public safety emergency" in Washington DC, despite data showing violent crime in the capital was at a 30-year low. He placed DC police under temporary federal control and deployed 800 National Guard troops to the city, contradicting factual crime statistics.

Supporting reports

• Trump fires head of Bureau of Labor Statistics — President Trump dismissed the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accusing her of manipulating employment numbers to portray the economy negatively. This action follows the release of poor employment figures, which Trump claims were intentionally skewed. The firing raises concerns about the independence of statistical agencies and the potential politicization of economic data reporting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is responsible for collecting and analyzing essential economic data, including employment statistics, which are crucial for policy-making and public understanding of economic conditions.
• Trump administration fires Bureau of Labor Statistics chief after unfavorable jobs report — Trump fired the chief of the Bureau of Labor Statistics hours after the agency reported weak job numbers for the final three months of his administration. White House economic advisors, including Kevin Hassett, claimed downward revisions in employment data constituted evidence of incompetence or rigging, despite economists and former BLS officials explaining that revisions are standard statistical practice and that hundreds of career professionals, not political appointees, construct the numbers. Lawrence Summers stated that firing a government agency head for disliking reported data is characteristic of authoritarian, not democratic, governance.
• Trump fires head of Bureau of Labor Statistics on day of poor economic data — On the same day that the Bureau of Labor Statistics released numbers showing a dramatic slowdown in the economy, Trump fired the head of the bureau. Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook subsequently expressed concern about the jobs numbers, suggesting the revisions "are somewhat typical of turning points" in the economy. The action appears to have alarmed businesspeople previously willing to support Trump, awakening them to the reality that his policies are pulling down the economy.
• Trump fires head of Bureau of Labor Statistics amid economic slowdown — On the same day that the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a significant slowdown in the economy, President Trump fired its head. This action has raised concerns among business leaders about the administration's economic management and its implications for future economic stability.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration invokes Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelan migrants without due process — In March 2025, the Trump administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport more than 200 Venezuelan migrants accused of gang membership to a mega-prison in El Salvador without court hearings or warrants. The Department of Justice claimed the law permits warrantless house raids and deportations. Civil rights groups challenged the authority, and the case is being heard by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, likely heading to the Supreme Court. Experts warn the invocation mirrors the 1941 precedent that enabled Japanese American internment.

Supporting reports

• Ghislaine Maxwell transferred to lower-security federal prison in Texas — Ghislaine Maxwell, serving a 20-year sentence for sex-trafficking crimes related to Jeffrey Epstein, was transferred from FCI Tallahassee (low-security) in Florida to Federal Prison Camp Bryan (minimum-security) in Texas. The transfer occurred roughly one week after Maxwell was interviewed by Deputy US Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding potential information about crimes in the Epstein case. Maxwell's attorney described the interview as "very productive" and stated she answered questions "honestly, truthfully, to the best of her ability."
• Ghislaine Maxwell transferred to minimum-security prison after meeting with Trump's former attorney — Virginia Giuffre's family expressed outrage after learning that convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell was moved overnight to a minimum-security prison in Texas following a meeting between Maxwell and Todd Blanche, Trump's former criminal defense attorney. The family statement characterized the transfer as preferential treatment for a "sexual predator" and "serial liar" and called it a "cover up" that fails victims of sex trafficking.

Supporting reports

• Trump suspends duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries — President Trump issued an executive order on July 30, 2025, suspending duty-free de minimis treatment (exemption from tariffs for low-value imports) for all countries effective August 29, 2025. The order applies to shipments from Canada, Mexico, China, Hong Kong, and globally, citing national emergencies related to drug trafficking and trade deficits. All articles previously eligible for duty-free treatment now face applicable duties, taxes, and fees; postal shipments face tiered duties based on country tariff rates.
• Trump increases tariffs on Canadian goods from 25% to 35% under national emergency declaration for drug trafficking — President Trump signed Executive Order 14325 on July 31, 2025, amending prior tariff orders to increase additional ad valorem duties on Canadian products from 25 percent to 35 percent, effective August 1, 2025. The order invokes the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and a declared national emergency regarding fentanyl and illicit drugs crossing the northern border. It also imposes a 40 percent tariff on transshipped Canadian goods evading duties and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to monitor Canada's cooperation and recommend further action if needed.
• Trump signs executive order increasing tariffs on Canadian goods from 25% to 35% — Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, July 31, 2025, increasing tariffs on Canadian goods imported to the United States from 25% to 35%, effective Friday, August 1. The tariff covers all products not covered by the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement, with a 40% transshipment levy on goods rerouted to evade the new rates. The White House cited Canada's failure to address fentanyl trafficking as justification, though Trump had earlier threatened tariffs as retaliation for Canada's recognition of Palestinian statehood. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed disappointment and vowed protective measures for Canadian jobs and export diversification.
• Trump increases tariffs on Canadian goods from 25% to 35% via executive order amendment — President Trump issued an executive order on July 31, 2025, amending prior tariff directives to increase the additional ad valorem duty rate on Canadian products subject to the 25% rate to 35%, effective August 1, 2025. The order invokes the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and cites Canada's alleged failure to cooperate in stemming fentanyl and illicit drug flows across the northern border, as well as Canadian retaliatory measures. The order also imposes a 40% duty on transshipped Canadian goods and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to monitor the situation and recommend further action.
• Trump signed executive order increasing tariffs on Canadian goods from 25% to 35%, citing drug trafficking emergency — President Trump signed Executive Order 14325 on July 31, 2025, amending prior tariff orders against Canada. The order increases the additional ad valorem duty rate on Canadian products from 25 percent to 35 percent, effective August 1, 2025. The order also imposes a 40 percent tariff on Canadian goods determined to have been transshipped to evade duties. Trump justified the increase by citing Canada's alleged failure to cooperate in stemming fentanyl and illicit drug flows across the northern border and Canada's retaliatory measures against U.S. exports.
• White House issues fact sheet on tariff increase against Canada for drug trafficking — The White House published a fact sheet on July 31, 2025, announcing that President Trump signed an executive order increasing tariffs on Canada from 25% to 35%, effective August 1, 2025. The fact sheet states the increase is justified by Canada's alleged failure to curb fentanyl trafficking and retaliation against U.S. tariff actions. It claims fentanyl seizures at the northern border this fiscal year have surpassed the prior three years combined and cites Canadian "super labs" producing 44–66 pounds of fentanyl weekly. The order exempts USMCA-qualifying goods and imposes a 40% transshipment tariff on goods diverted to evade the 35% rate.

Supporting reports

• Trump issues Executive Order 14326 modifying reciprocal tariff rates on foreign trading partners — President Trump signed Executive Order 14326 on July 31, 2025, further modifying reciprocal tariff rates imposed under the national emergency declared in Executive Order 14257. The order adjusts ad valorem duties on goods from specific trading partners based on their progress in trade negotiations and alignment with U.S. economic and national security interests. The European Union faces a minimum 15 percent tariff floor; other unlisted partners face a 10 percent baseline rate. Modifications take effect seven days after publication, with transshipment penalties set at 40 percent for evasion attempts.
• Trump issues executive order modifying reciprocal tariff rates on trading partners — President Trump issued an executive order on July 31, 2025, modifying reciprocal tariff rates imposed under a prior April 2025 order declaring a national emergency over trade deficits. The order adjusts duties on goods from specific trading partners based on their willingness to negotiate trade agreements and align with U.S. security interests. Some partners face reduced rates if they conclude trade agreements; others face increased or maintained duties. The order takes effect seven days after issuance and includes provisions penalizing transshipment schemes designed to evade tariffs.
• President Trump signed executive order modifying reciprocal tariff rates — The White House issued a fact sheet announcing that President Trump signed an executive order on July 31, 2025, modifying reciprocal tariff rates for certain countries. The order specifies tariff rates listed in an annex for named countries, with all others subject to a 10% baseline tariff. The fact sheet claims the action addresses U.S. trade deficits and reflects negotiations with trading partners, citing deals with the EU ($750 billion in energy purchases and $600 billion in investments at 15% tariff), Japan ($550 billion in investments at 15% tariff), and others. The administration states the policy incentivizes domestic manufacturing and protects national security.
• Trump signed Executive Order 14326 modifying reciprocal tariff rates on imports from 80+ countries and the European Union — President Trump signed Executive Order 14326 on July 31, 2025, modifying tariff rates imposed under the April 2025 reciprocal tariff order. The order adjusts duties on goods from specific trading partners, ranging from 10% (Brazil, Falkland Islands, United Kingdom) to 41% (Syria), with the European Union subject to a tiered formula capping duties at 15% for goods with lower existing rates. The order cites a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and references ongoing trade negotiations, retaliation by foreign partners, and alignment efforts on economic and national security matters. Implementation begins 7 days after signing, with exceptions for goods already in transit. The order directs Commerce, Homeland Security, and the U.S. Trade Representative to monitor circumstances and recommend further action.

Supporting reports

• Trump attacked Fed Chair Powell on social media — Trump posted a social media statement attacking Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, calling him "TOO LATE," "TOO ANGRY," "TOO STUPID," and "TOO POLITICAL," and labeling him a "TOTAL LOSER." Trump blamed Powell for the country "paying the price" for his decisions.
• Trump called for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to resign — President Trump, responding to the weak jobs report and economic slowdown, called for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell—his own appointee—to resign or be "put 'out to pasture.'" Trump has no legal authority to fire the Federal Reserve chair without cause and has recently suggested that a remodeling of the agency's headquarters has been wasteful, apparently attempting to manufacture grounds for removal. Powell has steadfastly refused to lower interest rates to pump money into the economy as Trump demands.
• Trump demands Federal Reserve Chair Powell lower interest rates immediately — Trump posted that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is a "stubborn MORON" and demanded he "substantially lower interest rates, NOW." Trump threatened that if Powell continues to refuse, "THE BOARD SHOULD ASSUME CONTROL, AND DO WHAT EVERYONE KNOWS HAS TO BE DONE!" The statement pressures the Fed chair to prioritize lower borrowing costs over inflation control.

Supporting reports

• Department of Education investigates at least 60 universities under Title VI for alleged antisemitism violations — The U.S. Department of Education has opened Title VI investigations against at least 60 universities, including Columbia, CUNY, Harvard, and Barnard, for alleged violations related to antisemitism. These investigations, conducted under Trump administration pressure, have prompted universities to adopt antisemitism trainings that critics argue conflate legitimate criticism of Israel with antisemitism and chill free speech on campus.

Supporting reports

• Trump suspends duty-free de minimis treatment globally, imposing tariffs on all low-value imports — President Trump signed Executive Order 14324 on July 30, 2025, suspending the duty-free de minimis exemption for all shipments regardless of value or country of origin, effective August 29, 2025. The order invokes national emergencies declared under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) related to drug trafficking from Canada, Mexico, and China, and trade deficits. All articles previously exempt from duties under 19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C) will now be subject to applicable duties, taxes, and fees. International postal shipments face tiered specific duties ($80–$200 per package) or ad valorem duties based on country tariff rates. The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to implement the order through regulatory changes and notices in the Federal Register.
• Trump suspends duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries — President Trump issued an executive order on July 30, 2025, suspending duty-free de minimis treatment (exemption from tariffs for low-value imports) for all countries effective August 29, 2025. The order applies to shipments from Canada, Mexico, China, Hong Kong, and globally, citing national emergencies related to drug trafficking and trade deficits. All articles previously eligible for duty-free treatment now face applicable duties, taxes, and fees; postal shipments face tiered duties based on country tariff rates.
• Trump signed executive order suspending duty-free de minimis treatment globally — President Trump signed Executive Order 14324 on July 30, 2025, suspending the duty-free de minimis exemption under 19 U.S.C. 1321(a)(2)(C) for all shipments regardless of value, country of origin, or entry method, effective August 29, 2025. The order invokes national emergencies declared under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) related to drug trafficking from Canada, Mexico, and China, and trade deficits. All shipments previously eligible for duty-free treatment must now be subject to applicable duties, taxes, and fees, with postal shipments assessed either ad valorem duties or specific per-package fees ($80–$200 depending on the country's tariff rate).
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order suspending de minimis duty-free exemption for commercial shipments — The White House published a fact sheet on July 30, 2025, describing an executive order signed by President Trump that suspends duty-free de minimis treatment for low-value commercial shipments globally, effective August 29, 2025. The order states it applies duties to imported goods valued at or under $800 sent outside the international postal network, and imposes ad valorem or specific duties ($80–$200 per item) on postal shipments. The fact sheet claims the exemption has been exploited to evade tariffs and smuggle fentanyl and counterfeit goods, citing CBP data that 90% of cargo seizures in FY24 originated as de minimis shipments.

Supporting reports

• UCLA settles lawsuit with Jewish students over antisemitic discrimination during pro-Palestinian protests — UCLA agreed to pay $6.5 million to settle a lawsuit filed by Jewish students and a professor alleging the university allowed antisemitic discrimination during pro-Palestinian campus protests. The settlement includes $2.33 million to eight Jewish community support groups, $320,000 to an antisemitism initiative, and $50,000 to each plaintiff. The Department of Justice's civil rights division simultaneously announced findings that UCLA violated the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act by acting with deliberate indifference in creating a hostile environment for Jewish and Israeli students.
• Department of Education investigates at least 60 universities under Title VI for alleged antisemitism violations — The U.S. Department of Education has opened Title VI investigations against at least 60 universities, including Columbia, CUNY, Harvard, and Barnard, for alleged violations related to antisemitism. These investigations, conducted under Trump administration pressure, have prompted universities to adopt antisemitism trainings that critics argue conflate legitimate criticism of Israel with antisemitism and chill free speech on campus.

Supporting reports

• Texas Republicans unveil aggressive congressional redistricting map targeting five Democratic seats — Texas Republicans, at the urging of Donald Trump, unveiled a new congressional map on July 30 that would allow the GOP to gain as many as five additional seats. The map consolidates two Democratic seats in Austin, redraws districts in south Texas and Houston, and eliminates one majority people-of-color seat. Democrats denounced it as illegal voter suppression and racial discrimination. The map was unveiled after public hearings where the proposed districts were not presented, rendering the legally required hearings pro forma. Democrats have pledged legal challenges and may consider leaving the state to deny quorum.

Supporting reports

• Trump issues executive order imposing 40% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing threats to U.S. national security and economy — President Trump signed an executive order on July 30, 2025, declaring a national emergency regarding the Government of Brazil and imposing a 40% ad valorem tariff on Brazilian imports effective seven days after the order. The order cites Brazilian judicial actions—particularly those of Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes—that allegedly compelled U.S. social media platforms to censor American citizens' constitutionally protected speech, froze accounts, and extracted user data. The order also references Brazil's prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act as authority.
• Trump signed executive order imposing 40% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing national emergency over alleged censorship and political persecution — President Trump signed Executive Order 14323 declaring a national emergency based on alleged actions by the Brazilian government, including censorship demands on U.S. social media platforms, targeting of political opponents, and persecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. The order imposes an additional 40% ad valorem tariff on most Brazilian products effective seven days after signing, with exceptions for certain goods including civil aircraft, energy products, and agricultural commodities. The order authorizes the Secretary of State to monitor the situation and recommend further action, and permits escalation if Brazil retaliates.
• Trump declares national emergency over Brazil government actions, imposes 40% tariff on Brazilian imports — President Trump signed Executive Order 14323 declaring a national emergency based on alleged threats from the Brazilian government, specifically citing judicial actions by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes targeting U.S. citizens and companies, censorship demands on U.S. social media platforms, and political persecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The order imposes an additional 40% ad valorem duty on Brazilian products effective seven days after signing, with exceptions for certain goods. The order authorizes the Secretary of State to employ powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and directs monitoring and potential escalation if Brazil retaliates.
• White House issues fact sheet on tariffs against Brazil over alleged censorship and human rights violations — The White House issued a fact sheet stating that President Trump signed an executive order on July 30, 2025, imposing an additional 40% tariff on Brazil (bringing the total to 50%) under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The order declares a national emergency, citing Brazil's alleged censorship of U.S. companies, persecution of former President Bolsonaro and supporters, and actions by Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The fact sheet claims these actions constitute threats to U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economy, and states that Trump also directed Secretary Rubio to revoke visas for Justice de Moraes and allies.
• Trump uses tariff authority to punish Brazil for prosecuting Bolsonaro — Trump has used emergency tariff authority to wage a tariff war, including using that power to punish countries like Brazil for its prosecution of Trump's political ally, former president Jair Bolsonaro. This represents weaponization of trade policy for personal and political purposes rather than legitimate national economic interest.

Supporting reports

• Trump proclaimed 50% tariff on copper semi-finished and derivative products, effective August 1, 2025, citing national security under Section 232. — President Trump issued Proclamation 10962 imposing a 50 percent tariff on semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products, effective August 1, 2025. The proclamation invokes Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, based on a Commerce Department report finding that copper imports threaten U.S. national security. The Secretary of Commerce is directed to establish a process for including additional copper derivatives within 90 days and to monitor domestic copper markets for potential future action on refined copper tariffs (15 percent starting 2027, 30 percent starting 2028). Domestic sales requirements for copper input materials and high-quality copper scrap are to be implemented under the Defense Production Act.
• Trump issued proclamation imposing 50 percent tariff on semi-finished copper and intensive copper derivative products — President Trump signed Proclamation 10909 on July 30, 2025, imposing a 50 percent tariff on semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products, effective August 1, 2025. The proclamation invokes section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, citing a Commerce Department report finding that copper imports threaten U.S. national security. The order directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish a process within 90 days to identify additional copper derivative articles for tariff inclusion and to monitor domestic copper markets for potential future duties on refined copper. The proclamation also directs implementation of domestic sales requirements for copper input materials and high-quality copper scrap under the Defense Production Act.
• Trump issues proclamation imposing 50% tariffs on copper imports under Section 232 — President Trump signed a proclamation on July 30, 2025, imposing universal 50% tariffs on semi-finished copper products and copper-intensive derivative products, effective August 1. The proclamation follows a Section 232 investigation initiated in February 2025. The White House fact sheet states the tariffs aim to address copper imports' effects on national security and support domestic copper industry capacity. The proclamation also directs the Secretary of Commerce to establish an inclusion process for copper derivative products and authorizes Defense Production Act measures requiring 25% of domestic high-quality copper scrap and copper input materials to be sold domestically.
• Trump signed universal 50% tariff on copper imports — Trump signed an executive order imposing a 50% tariff on copper imports, following earlier 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum. The administration stated the measure aims to boost domestic industries and address trade imbalances. Experts warned the tariffs could raise prices on construction materials, electronics, and other products using copper, the third-most-consumed metal. The U.S. imports nearly half its copper supply, primarily from Chile.

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• EPA head announced revocation of 2009 endangerment finding on greenhouse gases — EPA head Lee Zeldin announced that the Trump administration would revoke the 2009 "endangerment finding," a declaration that found that greenhouse gas emissions lead to global warming and threaten public health. Zeldin called the move, which would remove the federal government's authority under the Clean Air Act to regulate greenhouse gas emissions, the "largest deregulatory action in the history" of the US, if finalized.
• Environmental groups and former EPA leaders condemned endangerment finding revocation — Zeldin's announcement prompted widespread backlash from environmental groups, the scientific community, and three former EPA leaders. The executive director of the Natural Resources Defense Council told AP that the move "boggles the mind and endangers the nation's safety and welfare" as the US faces deadly floods and heat waves, adding that the council will sue the EPA if "this illegal and cynical approach" is finalized.
• EPA moves to rescind 2009 endangerment finding on greenhouse gases — Trump loyalists at the Environmental Protection Agency moved in August to rescind the agency's 2009 endangerment finding that has underpinned climate change regulatory efforts since the Obama administration. The move rejects widely accepted scientific consensus on climate change despite increased scientific evidence supporting the original finding.

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• Senator Warnock reintroduces John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act — On July 29, 2025, Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) led Democratic colleagues in reintroducing legislation to restore and expand the Voting Rights Act. The bill, named after Congressman John Lewis, seeks to reinstate federal oversight of voting law changes in states with histories of voter discrimination—protections struck down by the Supreme Court in the 2013 Shelby County v. Holder decision. The measure responds to accelerated voter suppression efforts by Republican-dominated state legislatures following the 2020 election and the 2021 Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee ruling.
• Senator Warnock reintroduces Voting Rights Advancement Act — Senator Raphael Warnock, along with several Democratic colleagues, reintroduced the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act aimed at restoring and expanding protections under the Voting Rights Act. This legislative effort seeks to address ongoing voter suppression issues and ensure equitable access to voting for all Americans.

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• Texas attorney general sues New York county clerk to enforce abortion-related fine — Ken Paxton, Texas attorney general, filed a petition in New York state supreme court seeking to compel Ulster County Clerk Taylor Bruck to enforce a $100,000+ fine against Dr. Margaret Carpenter, a New York physician accused of mailing abortion pills to a Texas woman. Bruck twice rejected the enforcement request, citing New York's "shield law" that blocks state officials from complying with out-of-state abortion prosecutions. The case is expected to escalate to the U.S. Supreme Court and represents a major state-versus-state conflict over abortion access and interstate commerce.

Supporting reports

• US Court of Appeals hears oral arguments in VOS Selections v Trump tariff challenge — The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit heard oral arguments on July 29, 2025, in VOS Selections v Trump, a lawsuit brought by small business owners challenging President Trump's tariff authority. The plaintiffs argue Trump lacks legal power under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose sweeping tariffs on major trading partners. The Trump administration claims the IEEPA authorizes tariffs based on national emergencies including trade deficits and fentanyl trafficking. A federal court previously ruled in May that Trump exceeded his trade law powers; that ruling was paused pending this appeals court decision.
• Federal appeals court hears challenge to Trump's reciprocal tariffs under emergency powers — The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit held oral arguments on July 31, 2025, examining whether President Trump exceeded his constitutional authority by invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose reciprocal tariffs on trading partners without congressional consultation. A three-judge panel of the Court of International Trade had blocked the tariffs in May; the appeals court stayed that ruling pending Thursday's hearing. The administration argued the trade deficit constitutes an emergency; challengers (five small businesses and 12 Democratic-controlled states) contended IEEPA does not authorize tariffs and that Trump's claim to unilateral emergency power is unprecedented in 200 years.
• Court to Weigh Legality of Trump's Tariffs — The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is set to review the legality of tariffs imposed by President Trump, which he has enacted under emergency powers, affecting international trade relations.
• U.S. Court of Appeals for Federal Circuit to rule on legality of Trump tariffs — On July 31, 2025, the day before the August 1 deadline on which most of Trump's tariffs will go into effect, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is scheduled to weigh in on whether those tariffs are legal. This ruling will determine whether the administration's use of emergency authority to impose tariffs withstands judicial scrutiny.
• DOJ argued case on Trump tariff authority lawsuit — The Department of Justice argued in court today on a lawsuit challenging Trump's constitutional authority to issue tariffs without congressional approval. Trump posted a statement expressing confidence in his legal team and asserting that tariffs are necessary for national survival and economic success.

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• Federal court proceedings in New Jersey cancelled due to Alina Habba authority questions — The New York Times reported that federal court proceedings in New Jersey were abruptly cancelled, including pretrial conferences, plea hearings, and a grand jury, due to questions about Alina Habba's authority to serve as acting US attorney. Maria Noto, a former president of the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey, told the Times, "I've never seen anything like this," and added, "We're all incredulous."
• Federal criminal proceedings in New Jersey suspended over acting U.S. Attorney authority challenge — The New York Times reported that federal criminal proceedings across New Jersey were canceled due to questions regarding the constitutional authority of acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba. Court hearings, grand jury proceedings, plea deals, and other proceedings were put on hold. A drug trial scheduled to begin in Camden on August 4 was moved to Pennsylvania after a defense attorney filed a motion challenging Habba's appointment as unconstitutional.

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• Emil Bove confirmed to federal appeals court by US Senate — The Senate confirmed Emil Bove, a former Trump defense attorney and top DOJ official, to a lifetime seat on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals by a 50-49 vote. The confirmation proceeded despite whistleblower allegations that Bove advocated for ignoring court orders, misled Congress about dropping corruption charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and participated in firing prosecutors who worked January 6 cases. All Democrats and two Republicans opposed the nomination.
• Senate confirmed Emil Bove as federal appeals court judge — The Republican-controlled Senate narrowly confirmed former Trump lawyer Emil Bove for a lifetime appointment as a federal appeals court judge, despite whistleblower allegations and widespread concerns over his fitness for office, including from over 900 former DOJ attorneys who penned a letter opposing his appointment.
• Senate confirms Emil Bove to federal judgeship despite whistleblower allegations — The Senate confirmed Emil Bove to a federal judgeship on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals with 50 Republicans voting in favor and 47 Democrats voting against. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) joined Democrats in opposition, with Murkowski stating that someone who counseled attorneys to ignore court orders should not receive a lifetime seat on the bench. Republican Thom Tillis (R-NC) voted in favor, illustrating Republican enablement of the administration's assault on the rule of law.
• Emil Bove confirmed to US Court of Appeals for Third Circuit on 50-49 Senate vote — The Republican-controlled Senate confirmed Emil Bove to a lifetime appointment on the US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit on a 50-49 vote, despite opposition from over 80 retired judges and three whistleblowers alleging serious ethical violations. Bove, who served as acting deputy attorney general, faced allegations of disregarding court orders, firing prosecutors for political reasons, and pressuring DOJ lawyers to defy judicial rulings. The Senate Judiciary Committee chair dismissed whistleblower concerns as "delay-and-obstruction tactics" without substantive investigation.

Supporting reports

• Trump characterizes Virginia Giuffre as employee "stolen" by Epstein from Mar-a-Lago — President Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that Jeffrey Epstein "stole" Virginia Giuffre and other young female staffers from Mar-a-Lago, claiming they worked in the spa. Trump stated Giuffre "had no complaints about us." The account contradicts his earlier claim that he broke with Epstein over inappropriate sexual behavior, instead framing the split as motivated by employee poaching. Giuffre, an Epstein accuser, died in April 2025.
• Trump acknowledged personal connection to Virginia Giuffre and Epstein recruitment from his properties — On Air Force One returning from Scotland, Trump stated that Jeffrey Epstein had recruited employees from his spa, including Virginia Giuffre, whom Trump said Epstein "stole" from his property. Trump claimed he had told Epstein to stop taking his employees and ended their friendship over this conduct. This marks the first time Trump has publicly acknowledged a direct connection between Giuffre, his properties, and Epstein's recruitment activities, contradicting his earlier denials of involvement.
• Trump offers new explanation for Epstein rift citing alleged recruitment of young women from Mar-a-Lago spa — President Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on July 29, 2025, that he ended his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein because Epstein "stole" young women, including Virginia Giuffre, who worked at Trump's Mar-a-Lago spa. Trump stated Epstein recruited spa workers and that when Trump learned of this, he told Epstein to stop; when it happened again, Trump said he expelled him. Giuffre, one of Epstein's most prominent trafficking victims, died by suicide in April 2025. Trump's account contradicts his prior public statements praising Epstein in 2002 and 2003, and his attorney's 2019 claim that Epstein was not banned until 2007 in response to criminal charges.
• Trump claimed Epstein fell out over "stolen" female employees — Aboard Air Force One, Trump told reporters that his falling out with Epstein happened after the sex trafficker "stole" young female employees from the Mar-a-Lago spa, including the late Virginia Giuffre. In response, Giuffre's family issued a statement saying Trump's comments were "shocking," and adding that "Ghislaine Maxwell is a monster who deserves to rot in prison for the rest of her life."
• Trump claims Epstein "stole" young women employees from Mar-a-Lago spa — Trump attempted to cast himself as a protector of women by claiming he turned against Epstein because Epstein "stole people that worked for me." When asked if those employees were young women, Trump answered "yes" and stated they were hired "out of the spa" he ran. Trump identified one of those girls as Virginia Giuffre, who was sex trafficked as a teenager by Ghislaine Maxwell and died by suicide earlier in 2025. Trump's timeline did not align with documented facts—Giuffre left her job at Mar-a-Lago in 2000 and Trump's friendship with Epstein continued for several more years afterward.
• Trump invoked Virginia Giuffre in connection with Jeffrey Epstein — Trump stated that he was aware Virginia Giuffre had been "stolen" from Mar-a-Lago by Jeffrey Epstein around 2000, positioning himself as a protector of girls from Epstein. However, public records show Trump told New York Magazine in 2002 that Epstein was a "terrific guy" who "likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side." Giuffre's family issued a statement questioning whether Trump was aware of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell's criminal actions and calling for answers.

Supporting reports

• FCC Commissioner warned of government weaponization of licensing power — On PBS News Hour, FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez warned that the Trump administration is "weaponizing" the commission's licensing power, saying, "Self-censorship, whether it's pressured or imposed by the government, is in and of itself a violation of the First Amendment, and I'm concerned that this will breed more corporate capitulation."