Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Office of Management and Budget proposed federal grant control rule — The Office of Management and Budget, directed by Russell Vought, proposed a sweeping change to federal rules that would place Trump appointees in control of billions of dollars in federal grants. The proposed rule would empower Trump's appointees to terminate grants that do not align with Trump's priorities, including grants awarded to universities through the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. The rule represents an attempt to politicize the distribution of federal research funding.
• OMB publishes sweeping grant-vetting proposal requiring political approval of federal awards to universities and NGOs — The White House Office of Management and Budget published a 400-page proposal requiring Trump-appointed officials to vet all federal grants to universities and nongovernmental organizations based on "American values" as defined by the president and "demonstrably advance the president's policy priorities." The proposal would bypass peer review, allow grants to be terminated at any time for any reason, ban diversity and LGBTQ+ support, prohibit disparate-impact research, and centralize grant administration under OMB Director Russell Vought. The rule-making process began with Friday's Federal Register publication and would take effect in October.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge issues temporary order blocking "anti-weaponization" fund — A federal judge issued a temporary order preventing the Trump administration from establishing the nearly $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund while a lawsuit seeking to stop it is considered. The fund, which originated from a settlement after Trump sued the IRS over disclosure of his tax returns, had been proposed to compensate individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.
• Federal judge temporarily blocks Trump's $1.8bn Anti-Weaponization Fund — US District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a temporary restraining order on Friday barring the Trump administration from transferring money into or taking further action on a $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund." The fund was created to settle a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Trump and his sons over leaked tax returns, without the government mounting a legal defense. The order preserves the status quo pending legal arguments in a challenge brought by Democracy Forward and other plaintiffs, preventing irreversible disbursement of taxpayer funds.
• Judge Leonie Brinkema temporarily blocked Anti-Weaponization Fund — U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema for the Eastern District of Virginia issued a temporary order halting the Department of Justice from creating, operating, or distributing funds from the so-called Anti-Weaponization Fund, a $1.776 billion slush fund established by the Trump administration to compensate those convicted of crimes related to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. The order prohibits the administration from transferring money to the fund, considering claims for payment, or paying out any funds. Brinkema scheduled a hearing on the case for June 12. The plaintiffs challenging the fund are people and entities prosecuted or threatened by the Trump administration who argue they are not being treated equally with Trump loyalists in compensation claims.
• Motion granted — Floyd v. Department of Justice (E.D. Va.) 1:26-cv-01399 — Judge Brinkema enjoined Defendants from taking any action related to the creation or operation of the Anti-Weaponization Fund, including transferring money to the Fund, considering submitted claims, or disbursing any funds. Judge Brinkema also denied the Plaintiffs' motion for expedited briefing and granted the Defendants' request for additional time.
• Federal Judge Brinkema temporarily blocked Trump's $1.776 billion fund for fraudsters and insurrectionists — Federal Judge Brinkema issued a temporary block on any further action involving Trump's $1.776 billion fund, preserving the status quo while litigation moves forward. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for June 12, 2026. The fund was characterized as being for "fraudsters and insurrectionists."
• Federal judge temporarily blocked Trump's $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund — U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema in Virginia issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Department of Justice from taking further action on the creation or operation of the Anti-Weaponization Fund, a $1.8 billion taxpayer-funded initiative. The order blocks the transfer of money to the fund, consideration of claims, and disbursement of funds while plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction is pending. Judge Brinkema scheduled a hearing for June 12 to hear further arguments on the case.
• Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump's $1.776 Billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from creating or operating a planned $1.776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" designed to compensate individuals who claim they were wrongfully targeted by the government, potentially including those Trump pardoned for Jan. 6 involvement. The order prohibits consideration of submitted claims and disbursement of funds pending a June 12 hearing.

Supporting reports

• Judge Christopher Cooper ordered removal of Trump's name from Kennedy Center — U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper of the District of Columbia ordered the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to remove Trump's name from the building, all official materials, and signage within fourteen days. Cooper also blocked the Kennedy Center's plan to close for two years. The judge affirmed that Congress, not the Trump administration, has authority over the Kennedy Center's name and operations. Cooper found that the Kennedy Center's board had agreed to the closure without legal counsel and that the executive director had proposed the shutdown within minutes of assuming the role.
• Judge Cooper issued ruling requiring Trump's name removed from Kennedy Center — On May 29, 2026, Judge Christopher R. Cooper of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that Trump's name must be removed from the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, finding that Congress alone has authority to change the center's name and that the board's renaming violated statutory restrictions on memorials. Cooper set a midnight June 12 deadline for removal of all signage, merchandise, and related materials bearing Trump's name.
• Federal judge ordered Trump's name removed from Kennedy Center — U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper in Washington, D.C., declared that the Kennedy Center's Board of Trustees lacked authority to rename the facility for President Trump. The judge ruled that only Congress can change the Center's official name under federal statute (20 U.S.C. 76h-76s), and voided the Board's December 18, 2025 resolution to rename it the "Donald J. Trump and John F. Kennedy Memorial Center." The court found the defendants violated the Kennedy Center's organic statute by installing signage, altering the website, and issuing materials bearing Trump's name.

Supporting reports

• OMB proposes rule placing federal research grants under political appointee control — On May 29, 2026, OMB Director Russ Vought proposed a rule that would place all federal research and discretionary grants under the control of political appointees rather than scientific experts. The rule would prohibit grants that "promote anti-American values" and require awards to "demonstrably advance the president's policy priorities." Stand Up for Science estimates nearly half of approximately 10,000 NIH-funded clinical trials could be discontinued, including over 1,000 cancer trials, pediatric studies, and trials addressing veterans' health, suicide, heart disease, and diabetes. The public comment period closes July 13, 2026.
• Trump administration proposed merit-based federal research grant system be replaced with political appointee approval — On May 29, 2026, the Trump administration proposed dramatic changes to federal research grant awards. Rather than continuing the merit-based system established through rigorous peer review, grants would be awarded based on approval by political appointees. The Office of Management and Budget, directed by Christian nationalist Russell Vought, would control grant allocation. The proposal limits foreign collaboration and allows the OMB to revoke grants deemed to fail "program goals, Federal agency priorities, or the national interest."
• Russell Vought proposes political control over research grants — Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget and co-author of Project 2025, proposed on May 28 that political appointees in his office should have final say over research grants, including those for the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and other governmental science agencies. The proposal aims to root out what it characterizes as a "woke" policy agenda and would also require approval by political appointees for international research collaboration.

Supporting reports

• Department of Justice argued for unlimited presidential firing power — Karen Lesperance, a lawyer for the Department of Justice, told Judge Jesse Furman of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York that the government's position is that the President has the power to fire anyone, even if doing so for political reasons. The statement was made in the case of Maurene Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey, who was fired from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York. When Judge Furman asked whether there were any limits to presidential firing power—such as whether the President could fire people to create an "all-white executive branch" or "all-Black" executive branch—Lesperance avoided answering the question. Comey's lawyer characterized the Justice Department's position as a "novel and breathtaking theory about the scope of" presidential power.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration announces Iran memorandum, then reverses course after backlash from Netanyahu and Republican allies — The Trump administration announced a proposed memorandum with Iran involving release of $25 billion in frozen assets, lifting of the U.S. naval blockade, and deferral of nuclear negotiations. Iran's state media contradicted Trump's characterization, stating passage through the Strait of Hormuz would remain under Iranian control and management. Netanyahu called Trump directly; Republican figures including Pompeo, Cruz, Graham, and Wicker publicly criticized the terms. Trump subsequently told ABC he "can't talk about the deal" and that the blockade remains in full force pending certification and signing.
• Trump administration negotiated Iran agreement — Trump announced via social media that an agreement with Iran had been "largely negotiated" following calls with leaders from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Pakistan, Türkiye, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The deal reportedly included unfreezing Iranian funds, lifting the U.S. blockade, withdrawing U.S. forces, reopening the Strait of Hormuz with Iranian tolls, and allowing Iran to retain enriched uranium. Iran's state media immediately disputed Trump's claims, noting that American officials had told Iran that Trump's tweets are "primarily for promotional purposes" and should not be taken seriously.
• Trump Claims Progress on Iran Deal Amidst Controversy — President Trump announced via social media that a largely negotiated agreement with Iran is in the final stages, which includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and unfreezing Iranian funds. However, Iranian state media refuted Trump's claims, stating that they are primarily for U.S. media consumption. The deal has drawn criticism from Republican Senator Roger Wicker, who warned it could undermine U.S. military efforts in the region.

Supporting reports

• Trump posted fifty-five times on social media accusing political opponents of treason and demanding indictments — Over three hours on the evening of May 12, the president posted fifty-five times on social media, accusing former president Barack Obama, and others he considers enemies, of treason in connection with investigations of his 2016 campaign's ties to Russian operatives and the 2020 election. He reposted a false quotation attributed to Senator John Kennedy, labeled Obama and others "traitors," and demanded that acting attorney general Todd Blanche indict them. The posts also attacked the New York Times, Democratic leaders, and House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries.
• Trump posted 55 times on Truth Social over three hours in a meltdown containing conspiracy theories and false accusations — Trump posted 55 times between approximately 10:15 PM and 1:13 AM, making numerous false and conspiracy-theory-based accusations including claims that Obama attempted a coup in 2016, worked with the CIA to overthrow him, that Dominion voting systems switched votes in 2020, that Obama made $120 million from Obamacare, and that Obama, Clinton, and Comey committed treason. Posts included reposting fake accounts, fabricated quotes, and demands for arrests of political opponents. CNN fact-checker Daniel Dale noted the posts were "detached from reality" and included a completely fabricated quote falsely attributed to GOP Senator John Kennedy that originated from a satire/fakery website.

Supporting reports

• Trump rejected Iran's ceasefire response and refused congressional authorization for continued war — On May 11, 2026, President Trump rejected Iran's response to a U.S. one-page memorandum proposing a framework for nuclear talks. Iran had reiterated its determination to control the Strait of Hormuz and called for reparations for war damages, an end to the naval blockade, and unfreezing of Iranian assets. Trump declared the Iranian response "TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE" and told reporters the proposal was a "piece of garbage," warning the ceasefire was on "massive life support." Critically, Trump continued to rely on the ceasefire to justify refusing to seek congressional authorization for the war, despite the 60-day War Powers Act deadline expiring on May 1, 2026.

Supporting reports

• FDA approves fruit-flavored vapes after Trump pressure overrides agency scientists — The FDA approved fruit-flavored vapes for the first time after Trump pressured Commissioner Makary to override agency scientists who had halted the approval. Trump made calls over the weekend to pressure the decision. The approval occurred on Tuesday, with the news release attributing the decision to "President Trump's leadership" rather than standard regulatory processes, marking direct political interference in drug approval.
• FDA limits Covid vaccines and refuses Moderna flu vaccine consideration — Vinay Prasad, head of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), overruled center scientists to limit Covid vaccines and refused to consider Moderna's new mRNA-based flu vaccine. The flu vaccine decision was quickly reversed after public outcry. Prasad worked with Commissioner Makary to create a new vaccine approval framework announced through a journal article rather than standard agency processes.
• Trump administration pressures FDA commissioner over fruit-flavored vape approval — Trump signed off on a plan to fire FDA Commissioner Marty Makary in early May 2026 after scolding him for not approving fruit-flavored vapes, according to the Wall Street Journal. Makary had initially overridden agency scientists to halt approval of the first fruit-flavored vapes before the FDA announced the approval would move forward. The dispute exemplifies broader tensions between Trump and Makary over regulatory independence.

Supporting reports

• JD Vance threatens to withhold federal Medicaid and Medicare funding from states refusing anti-fraud compliance — Vice President JD Vance announced that the Trump administration will threaten to "turn off" federal Medicaid and Medicare funding to states that do not comply with the administration's fraud investigation efforts. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services simultaneously halted new enrollments for hospices and home health agencies for six months pending fraud investigation. The HHS Inspector General sent letters to all 50 state attorneys general warning that non-compliance with fraud audits of Medicaid Fraud Control Units puts "all of your state's Medicaid funds in jeopardy," despite legal experts noting the HHS lacks statutory authority to withhold all state Medicaid funds.

Supporting reports

• Trump characterizes military blockade as "greatest military maneuver in history" and threatens Iranian ships — Trump told Fox News Channel's Trey Yingst that his military blockade of Iranian ports is the "greatest military maneuver in history." He also stated that if Iranians target U.S. ships, they will be "blown off the face of the earth." Trump later described the blockade to a group of small-business owners at the White House as a "mini war."

Supporting reports

• Trump administration claims War Powers Resolution compliance by declaring Iran war "terminated" despite ongoing blockade — The Trump administration argued on Friday that it did not require congressional approval under the 1973 War Powers Resolution at the 60-day mark because the war with Iran had "terminated" on April 7, despite the U.S. continuing to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports—an act of war. When asked how the war could be terminated while the military enforced the blockade, Trump told reporters it was a "very friendly blockade" that "nobody's even challenging." Senator Tammy Duckworth challenged the claim as false, noting that U.S. and Iranian ships were exchanging missile fire in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Secretary of State announces shift in military operations against Iran — Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the military operation known as Epic Fury against Iran has concluded, transitioning to a new phase called Project Freedom, which aims to open the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes after the deadline set by the War Powers Act for congressional approval of military action.
• Secretary of State Rubio announced end of Operation Epic Fury and transition to Project Freedom — Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that Operation Epic Fury, the military campaign against Iran, is concluded and the administration is transitioning to Project Freedom, an effort to open the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came after the May 1 deadline imposed by the 1973 War Powers Act, which required either congressional approval or withdrawal of troops within 60 days of notifying Congress of military action.
• Trump claims war has "terminated" to avoid War Powers Act compliance — The Trump administration insists the war with Iran has "terminated," a characterization that would exempt the president from the requirement under the 1973 War Powers Act to either withdraw troops or obtain congressional approval for continuing military actions. This claim is made despite ongoing military exchanges in the Strait of Hormuz.

Supporting reports

• Defense Department announced withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany — On Friday, the Defense Department announced it was pulling 5,000 troops from Germany and cancelling a plan formulated under the Biden administration to deploy an artillery unit equipped with missiles in Europe. The U.S. had increased its European presence after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. These moves will return U.S. forces to pre-invasion levels. Senior defense officials indicated the force reduction was intended as punishment for Germany after Chancellor Merz's criticism of Trump's Iran strategy. U.S. bases in Germany serve as staging areas for U.S. operations in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
• Trump announced withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany. — Trump announced the immediate withdrawal of 5,000 US troops from Germany, with more withdrawals to follow. The decision came after German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told students the US was "being humiliated by the Iranian leadership." Nearly 40,000 US troops are currently stationed in Germany, the largest contingent in Europe.
• Trump suggested withdrawing troops from Spain and Italy — On Thursday, President Trump suggested to reporters that he might also pull troops out of Spain and Italy, stating "Why shouldn't I? Italy has not been of any help to us. And Spain has been horrible. Absolutely horrible."

Supporting reports

• Trump claimed no prior president sought War Powers Act congressional approval — On May 1, 2026, President Trump told reporters that he did not need to seek congressional authorization to extend military operations against Iran because "it's never been sought before" and "nobody's ever asked for it before." Trump stated that "every other president considered it totally unconstitutional" and that the administration agreed with that interpretation. The claim contradicts historical practice; presidents before Trump have honored the 60-day War Powers Act requirement for congressional approval of military operations.
• Trump claimed War Powers Act 60-day clock terminated after ceasefire — On May 1, 2026, sixty days after notifying Congress of military action in Iran on March 2, Trump sent letters to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley stating that hostilities that began on February 28 had "terminated" on April 7, when Trump ordered a two-week ceasefire. Although hostilities and a U.S. blockade of Iran continued, the administration maintained the ceasefire was in place until July 10, 2026.
• Trump notified Congress of claimed termination of Iran hostilities under War Powers Act — On May 1, 2026, President Trump sent letters to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley claiming that hostilities with Iran that began on February 28 had terminated on April 7 when Trump ordered a two-week ceasefire. The letter asserted no exchange of fire had occurred since April 7, despite U.S. forces firing on an Iranian tanker on April 19 and continuing a blockade of Iranian ports. The administration stated it would continue building military presence in the region. This action occurred on the 60-day deadline imposed by the 1973 War Powers Act, which requires presidential withdrawal of forces or congressional authorization by that date.
• White House asserted to Congress that Iran hostilities have terminated despite ongoing military presence — The White House sent a letter to Congress asserting that hostilities with Iran have "terminated" despite the continued presence of U.S. armed forces in the region. The assertion was made to circumvent a May 1 legal deadline for congressional approval to continue the war, which Trump began without congressional authorization two months prior.

Supporting reports

• Senate Majority Leader Thune declined to challenge Trump's War Powers Act interpretation — On May 1, 2026, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) stated he would not challenge Trump's novel interpretation of the War Powers Act. Thune said Senate Republicans had given him no reason to do so. The article notes that Republicans have no interest in voting to support Trump's unpopular war but do not want to oppose Trump, leading them to abdicate their constitutional responsibilities regarding war authorization.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs bipartisan DHS funding bill, ending 75-day shutdown — President Trump signed bipartisan legislation on Thursday ending a 75-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, the longest agency shutdown in U.S. history. The Republican-controlled House approved the measure in a swift voice vote, funding much of DHS including the Secret Service and TSA, but explicitly excluding immigration enforcement agencies (ICE and CBP). The White House had warned that emergency funds were nearly exhausted and that staffing shortages threatened airport operations. A separate $70 billion immigration enforcement budget was advanced through a Republican-only reconciliation process.
• Became Law: Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2026 — Congress passed and the President signed H.R. 7147, a continuing appropriations measure funding the Department of Homeland Security and related agencies through fiscal 2026. The bill became Public Law 119-86 on April 30, 2026. Continuing resolutions maintain federal operations when regular appropriations bills are not enacted, preserving agency funding and preventing government shutdowns.
• US Congress passes 45-day extension of FISA Section 702 warrantless surveillance authority — The US House of Representatives voted to extend Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act for 45 days, avoiding a statutory lapse at midnight on April 30. The extension follows a 10-day stopgap passed earlier in April. Republican Speaker Mike Johnson refused to include substantive reforms demanded by progressive Democrats and hardline Republicans, particularly a warrant requirement for surveilling Americans' communications. Privacy advocates and reform-minded lawmakers criticized the decision as circumventing democratic process and constitutional protections.
• House Republicans ended 76-day Department of Homeland Security shutdown — After a 76-day shutdown, House Republicans passed a Senate measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security while withholding funds from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection. The Senate had passed the bill unanimously on March 27, but Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) refused to take it up until April 30 because it aligned with Democratic priorities.
• House Passes Partial DHS Funding Bill — The U.S. House of Representatives passed a partial funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), likely ending the longest partial government shutdown in U.S. history. This legislative action aims to restore funding and operations for DHS, impacting national security and federal employees.

Supporting reports

• Trump posted social media message calling for filibuster elimination — President Trump posted on his social media account calling on the Republican Senate to eliminate the filibuster to pass legislation including "The Save America Act" and other measures he characterized as previously unthinkable. He stated that without the filibuster, "We could pass one bill after the other" and "we wouldn't lose for 50 years."
• Trump told reporters filibuster elimination would enable unprecedented legislative agenda — President Trump told reporters that eliminating the filibuster would allow passage of "laws and acts and things that we never even dreamt of passing" and stated that without it "we wouldn't lose for 50 years," indicating an intent to use legislative supermajority power to entrench Republican control beyond normal democratic cycles.
• Trump called for Senate to abolish the filibuster — Trump posted on Truth Social urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune to abolish the filibuster, claiming it would allow Republicans to pass legislation "at a record clip," including the Save Act. Trump stated that without the filibuster, Republicans "wouldn't lose for 50 years." When asked about the post in the Oval Office, Trump elaborated that eliminating the filibuster would allow passage of laws "we never even dreamt of passing."

Supporting reports

• Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche filed motion to dissolve preliminary injunction on ballroom construction — Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche filed a motion late on April 28, 2026, seeking to dissolve the court's preliminary injunction blocking construction of the White House ballroom. The motion contained seven pages of argument that the lack of a ballroom endangers Trump, and opened with dismissive language attacking the National Trust for Historic Preservation's name and legitimacy. The motion did not address the court's separate decision not to stop construction of an underground bunker beneath the proposed addition.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration officials use shooting incident to advance ballroom construction and suppress criticism. — Within hours of the shooting, Trump administration officials and allied Republicans coordinated messaging to use the incident as justification for a contested White House ballroom construction project. Deputy White House Chief of Staff Dan Scavino attempted to lead a "USA! USA!" chant immediately after the shooting. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche sent a letter to the National Trust for Historic Preservation demanding dismissal of their lawsuit against the ballroom, stating the lawsuit "puts the lives of the president, his family, and his staff at grave risk." Multiple Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Chip Roy and Sen. John Fetterman, called for taxpayer funding of the ballroom. Trump held a press conference claiming the incident proved the need for the ballroom's "bulletproof glass" and "much more secure" design.
• Trump invokes shooting incident to press White House ballroom construction project — Following a shooting at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on Saturday night, President Trump used the incident to advance his controversial $400 million White House ballroom project. Trump claimed at a Saturday press briefing and in a Sunday Truth Social post that the incident demonstrated the need for a secure on-site ballroom, stating it would be "drone-proof" and "bulletproof." Trump also demanded on Sunday that lawsuits challenging the ballroom construction "must be dropped, immediately."
• DOJ demands National Trust drop White House ballroom lawsuit citing assassination attempt — Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the DOJ Civil Division sent a letter to the National Trust for Historic Preservation demanding the organization withdraw its lawsuit challenging Trump's planned ballroom on the site of the former White House East Wing. Shumate cited a shooting incident the previous night at the Washington Hilton during the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where a man carrying firearms and knives was apprehended by Secret Service. Shumate argued the ballroom is essential for presidential security and threatened to move to dissolve the injunction and dismiss the case if the lawsuit was not voluntarily dismissed by 9 a.m. Monday.
• Trump insisted security incident proved need for proposed ballroom — At a press conference hours after the April 26, 2026 security incident at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, Trump stated that the trouble demonstrated the necessity of his proposed ballroom addition to the White House.
• Department of Justice demanded National Trust for Historic Preservation drop lawsuit against Trump ballroom plans — On April 27, 2026, the Department of Justice sent a letter demanding that the National Trust for Historic Preservation withdraw its lawsuit challenging Trump's plans to construct a ballroom addition to the White House, arguing that the lawsuit "puts the lives of the President, his family, and his staff at grave risk." The National Trust rejected the demand, stating that while the security incident was "awful," Trump must still follow the law and obtain congressional approval for the ballroom.
• DOJ pressures National Trust for Historic Preservation to drop lawsuit against Trump ballroom project — Following a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on April 26, the Department of Justice, through Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate, sent a letter to lawyers representing the National Trust for Historic Preservation demanding the organization voluntarily withdraw its lawsuit challenging Trump's $400 million White House ballroom construction project. The DOJ characterized the lawsuit as "frivolous" and argued the ballroom was essential for presidential security. The trust had previously obtained a preliminary injunction halting the project in March, but a three-judge appeals panel granted a stay allowing construction to resume on April 11.

Supporting reports

• Trump declines to seek congressional authorization for Iran military operations — Trump has refused to seek congressional approval for military operations against Iran, claiming Iran posed an "imminent threat" under the War Powers Act. Trump's own intelligence agencies contradicted the imminent threat claim. The War Powers Act requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours and cease military action within 60 days unless Congress declares war or authorizes the specific military action. The 60-day window closes on May 1, 2026. Trump stated he has "all the time in the world" and told reporters not to rush him, comparing the conflict to Vietnam, Iraq, and World War II. Trump previously claimed in January that the War Powers Act is unconstitutional.

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• Trump orders Navy to shoot Iranian boats near Strait of Hormuz based on nonexistent minesweeping operation — President Trump ordered the U.S. Navy to shoot Iranian boats near the Strait of Hormuz, citing a minesweeping operation that does not exist. The order represents a direct military command based on a false premise, escalating tensions in a critical international waterway and potentially violating rules of engagement and international law governing naval operations in contested waters.

Supporting reports

• President exempts Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act requirements in Idaho, Oregon, Nevada — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-07, exempting U.S. Air Force jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada from Federal, State, interstate, and local water pollution control requirements under the Clean Water Act for one year (April 20, 2026–April 20, 2027). The exemption applies to operations subject to ongoing litigation in Oregon Natural Desert Ass'n v. Meink. The determination invokes section 313 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, citing paramount national interest. Certain statutory provisions (33 U.S.C. 1316 and 1317) remain applicable.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to declare coal supply chains and baseload power generation essential to national defense, waiving procedural requirements. — On April 20, 2026, the President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-08, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare coal supply chains, mining, logistics, terminals, and baseload power generation capacity essential to national defense. The determination cites a prior national energy emergency declaration and asserts that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot timely provide these capabilities due to financing constraints and regulatory delays. The President waives procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and directs the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic grid infrastructure manufacturing capacity — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-10 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act to declare grid infrastructure and supply chains (transformers, transmission lines, substations, power electronics, and related materials) essential to national defense. The determination finds that domestic production capacity is dangerously limited and foreign-dependent, posing a threat to defense readiness. The President waives procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic manufacturing capability.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity as national defense priority. — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-11 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity essential to national defense. The determination, published April 23, 2026, finds that without federal action, U.S. industry cannot provide these capabilities in a timely manner due to financing constraints, permitting bottlenecks, and supply chain limitations. The President waives certain procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to expand domestic petroleum capacity.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand natural gas and LNG capacity as national defense priority — The President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-12 on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare natural gas transmission, processing, storage, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity essential to national defense. The determination finds that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot timely provide these capabilities due to financing constraints, permitting delays, and infrastructure bottlenecks. The President waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic natural gas and LNG infrastructure.
• President invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to prioritize large-scale energy infrastructure development, manufacturing, and deployment as essential to national defense. — On April 20, 2026, the President issued Presidential Determination No. 2026-09, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare that development, manufacturing, and deployment of large-scale energy and energy-related infrastructure are essential to national defense. The determination, made pursuant to Executive Order 14156 (declaring a national energy emergency), finds that domestic capability cannot be met under existing market conditions due to financing risks, regulatory delays, and market barriers. The President waives certain procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) and authorizes the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination through purchases, commitments, and financial instruments.
• Trump invokes Defense Production Act Section 303 to authorize federal purchases and financial support for domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum determining that domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity constitute industrial resources essential to national defense under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950. The memorandum, issued pursuant to a January 2025 national energy emergency declaration, authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand petroleum infrastructure, citing constrained financing, permitting bottlenecks, and supply chain limitations as barriers. The determination waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) of the Act.
• Trump issues Presidential Determination exempting Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act regulations — President Trump signed a Presidential Determination on April 20, 2026, granting U.S. Air Force jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada a one-year exemption from certain Clean Water Act regulations. The fact sheet states the exemption prioritizes national security and military readiness while claiming compliance with "toughest Federal standards." The determination removes what the administration characterizes as "unnecessary obstacles" to pilot training and operational effectiveness.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to authorize federal action on large-scale energy infrastructure development and financing — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare that development, manufacturing, and deployment of large-scale energy and energy-related infrastructure are essential to national defense. The determination, issued pursuant to a prior national energy emergency declaration (Executive Order 14156), authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic energy infrastructure capability, citing financing risks, regulatory delays, and market barriers as obstacles. The memorandum waives standard procedural requirements under Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) of the Act.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand domestic grid infrastructure manufacturing capacity — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum determining that grid infrastructure and supply chains—including transformers, transmission lines, substations, and related equipment—are essential to national defense under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950. The determination, issued pursuant to the January 20, 2025 National Energy Emergency declaration, authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic production capacity. The memorandum waives procedural requirements of Section 303(a)(1)-(a)(6) to expedite implementation.
• Trump issues Presidential Determination invoking Defense Production Act Section 303 to expand natural gas and LNG capacity — President Trump issued a Presidential Determination under Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, declaring natural gas transmission, processing, storage, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity to be industrial resources essential to national defense. The determination, issued pursuant to the national energy emergency declared in Executive Order 14156 (January 20, 2025), authorizes the Secretary of Energy to make purchases, financial commitments, and provide financial support to expand domestic natural gas and LNG infrastructure, waiving standard procedural requirements under the Act.
• Trump issues presidential determination invoking Defense Production Act to expand coal supply chains and baseload power generation — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, invoking Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare coal supply chains and baseload power generation capacity essential to national defense. The determination finds that without presidential action, U.S. industry cannot provide these capabilities in a timely manner due to financing constraints and regulatory delays. The memorandum directs the Secretary of Energy to implement the determination, including making purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to expand coal supply chain capacity and baseload generation availability, and waives certain procedural requirements of the Act.
• White House issues presidential memorandum exempting Air Force jet fighter training from Clean Water Act requirements — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on April 20, 2026, exempting the U.S. Air Force's jet fighter training operations in Idaho, Oregon, and Nevada from federal, state, interstate, and local water pollution control requirements under the Clean Water Act for a one-year period (April 20, 2026 to April 20, 2027). The memorandum cites section 313 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and notes that some operations are subject to ongoing litigation in Oregon Natural Desert Association v. Meink. The exemption does not apply to certain specific statutory provisions (33 U.S.C. 1316 and 1317).
• Trump signs memos invoking Defense Production Act to expand domestic fossil fuel production — On Monday, President Trump released multiple memoranda citing his January 2025 national energy emergency declaration, directing the energy secretary to expand US oil, coal, and natural gas production under the Defense Production Act. Trump claimed inadequate domestic energy supply poses a national security threat and ordered federal action to ensure "resilient domestic petroleum production, refining, and logistics capacity." The memos authorized the energy secretary to make purchases, commitments, and financial instruments to enable fossil fuel projects.

Supporting reports

• U.S. District Judge Richard Leon halted above-ground construction of White House ballroom — U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, issued an order halting above-ground construction of a proposed White House ballroom but permitting construction of the below-ground bunker to continue. The decision prompted President Trump to post four lengthy social media screeds attacking the judge as "Trump Hating" and claiming the ballroom is essential to national security, containing bomb shelters, military installations, and protective infrastructure. Trump characterized the judicial order as "illegal overreach" and "a mockery to our Court System."
• Federal judge limits Trump's White House ballroom project — Federal Judge Richard Leon, a George W. Bush appointee, ruled that construction on Trump's planned White House ballroom project can proceed only on an underground portion deemed necessary for national security, not on the 90,000-square-foot aboveground addition Trump wanted for entertaining VIP guests. Judge Leon wrote that "national security is not a blank check to proceed with otherwise unlawful activity." Trump had argued the entire project counted as a security project because of bulletproof glass and bomb shelters.
• Trump attacks federal judge blocking White House ballroom construction — Trump attacked a federal judge on Truth Social who blocked the administration's above-ground construction of a White House ballroom, calling the judge "Trump Hating" and "highly political" and baselessly accusing him of "illegal overreach." The judge had authorized below-ground construction, citing protection of national security facilities. Trump claimed the below-ground portion will include bomb shelters and medical facilities.
• President Trump attacked federal judge Richard Leon in social media posts over ballroom ruling — President Trump posted four lengthy social media screeds attacking U.S. District Judge Richard Leon for halting above-ground construction of a proposed White House ballroom. Trump characterized the judge as "Trump Hating," accused him of "illegal overreach," and claimed the judicial order is "a mockery to our Court System." Trump asserted that the ballroom is essential to national security and that no judge can be allowed to stop the project, framing judicial review as an attack on presidential authority and national defense.
• Stay pending appeal decided — National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States v. National Park Service (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-04316 — The D.C. Circuit granted Defendants' emergency motion for a stay pending appeal of Judge Leon's April 16, 2026 order and set an expedited briefing schedule, noting: “The purpose of this administrative stay is to give the court sufficient opportunity to consider the emergency motion for a stay pending appeal and should not be construed in any way as a ruling on the merits of that motion.”

Supporting reports

• Iran nuclear negotiations failed; Trump announced blockade of Strait of Hormuz — Vice President JD Vance's diplomatic mission to negotiate a nuclear agreement with Iran in Pakistan ended without agreement after approximately 21 hours of talks. Three main sticking points remained: reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, disposition of nearly 900 pounds of highly enriched uranium, and release of approximately $27 billion in frozen Iranian revenues. Following the failed negotiations, Trump announced on Truth Social and Fox News that the U.S. Navy would immediately begin a complete blockade of all maritime traffic entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, stating the blockade would begin April 13 at 10 a.m. ET.
• CENTCOM confirmed implementation of Hormuz blockade — U.S. Central Command issued an official statement confirming that CENTCOM forces would begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports beginning April 13, 2026 at 10 a.m. ET, in accordance with the President's proclamation. The blockade would be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
• Trump threatened military strikes on Iranian infrastructure — Trump posted multiple statements on Truth Social threatening military action against Iran, stating "we are fully 'LOCKED AND LOADED,' and our Military will finish up the little that is left of Iran!" He also told Fox News host Maria Bartiromo that the U.S. could destroy Iranian power plants, bridges, water systems, and desalinization plants, stating "The only thing left really is their water, which would be very devastating to hit. I would hate to do it, but it's their water, their desalinization plants, their electric generating plants. We could have them all down."
• Trump announces naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf — President Trump announced a blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, with 15 American warships positioned to enforce it. Trump posted on social media that Iran's navy is "laying at the bottom of the sea" and threatened to "immediately eliminate" any Iranian fast attack ships approaching the blockade. The announcement came after failed peace negotiations in Islamabad and prompted immediate Iranian retaliation threats and international concern about enforcement against Chinese vessels.
• U.S. Central Command announces naval blockade of Iranian ports — U.S. Central Command announced it would begin a naval blockade of maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET, following failed U.S.-Iran talks. The Strait of Hormuz, the blockade's focal point, handles roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption, raising risks of wider regional conflict and economic disruption. The escalation concentrates executive power and reduces accountability for military decisions.
• Trump announced U.S. military blockade of Strait of Hormuz — President Trump announced that the U.S. military will blockade the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil is transported. Trump described the policy as "all in and all out," stating the blockade would prevent Iran from selling oil selectively. U.S. Central Command announced it would "begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13" in accordance with the President's proclamation.
• U.S. Central Command announces blockade implementation — U.S. Central Command announced that it will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, following President Trump's proclamation. This military action is part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on Iran amid ongoing tensions and failed diplomatic negotiations.

Supporting reports

• House Republicans block Iran War Powers Resolution vote — House Republicans blocked Democrats from holding a vote on an Iran War Powers Resolution, preventing the chamber from even debating or voting on the measure during a period of heightened military tensions with Iran and ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
• House Republicans blocked pro forma session to prevent Democratic war-powers vote on Iran — House Republicans shut down a pro forma session before Democrats could force a vote on limiting presidential war powers regarding Iran. The action prevented Congress from exercising its constitutional authority to declare war or constrain executive military action. The majority party chose procedural avoidance over a substantive vote on war powers.
• Republicans block Democratic war powers resolution on Iran through procedural obstruction — House Democrats attempted to pass a resolution curtailing Donald Trump's war powers over Iran using unanimous consent procedure on Thursday. Republican Speaker Chris Smith declined to recognize Democratic lawmakers seeking to introduce the measure, immediately ending the session. The move prevented any vote, though it was expected to fail anyway. The attempt signaled Capitol Hill unease over a fragile Middle Eastern ceasefire with no clear endgame, amid continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon and Iranian actions suggesting the truce is deteriorating.
• Democrats Attempt to Force Vote on War Powers Resolution — On April 9, 2026, Democrats in Congress sought to force a vote on a war powers resolution aimed at ending U.S. military actions in Iran. This effort faced resistance from Republican leadership, who refused to engage in discussions regarding Trump's military actions.
• House Republicans blocked war powers resolution vote on Iran war — Although Congress was not scheduled to conduct business until April 13, Democrats came to Washington to force a vote on a war powers resolution to end the war on Iran. Republicans, led by House Speaker Chris Smith of New Jersey, steadfastly refused to discuss Trump's attack on Iran. Smith refused to recognize the Democrats and ended the day's session immediately, later saying Democrats should support the ceasefire instead of voting on the resolution.