Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Senate Democrats released documents supporting whistleblower complaint against Bove — On July 10, 2025, Senate Democrats released a trove of documents provided by whistleblower Erez Reuveni to the Senate Judiciary Committee. The documents, including texts and emails, confirm that Department of Justice lawyers misled Judge James Boasberg about the timing of deportations to El Salvador. One DOJ lawyer told the judge he did not know when the Trump administration intended to deport the men, while internal communications showed DOJ lawyers knew deportations were planned within 24 hours.

Supporting reports

• Trump announced 35% tariff on goods from Canada — On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, President Trump announced a 35% tariff on goods from Canada, effective August 1.
• Trump announced 50% tariff on copper effective August 1 — On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, President Trump announced a 50% tariff on copper, effective August 1. Copper is vital to the defense industry, batteries, electric wires, and plumbing. The U.S. imports more than half of the copper it uses. Trump stated he wants the U.S. to produce the copper it needs domestically, but industry experts note that achieving domestic production capacity will take years.
• Trump announces 50% tariff on Brazil, citing Bolsonaro trial as "witch-hunt" — On Wednesday, President Trump announced a 50% tariff on Brazilian products, explicitly linking it to what he called a "witch-hunt" trial against former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro. Trump also announced tariffs on seven other countries (Philippines, Brunei, Moldova, Algeria, Libya, Iraq, Sri Lanka) ranging from 25–30%, effective 1 August. Trump cited Brazil's regulation of social media platforms and claimed an unfair trade deficit. Brazilian President Lula rejected the demands, asserting Brazil's sovereignty and independent judiciary.

Supporting reports

• DOJ leader allegedly suggested defying court orders on deportations — Emil Bove, the Department of Justice's principal associate deputy attorney general and Trump nominee for the US Court of Appeals, reportedly told staff the department "would need to consider telling the courts 'fuck you'" regarding orders blocking deportations of undocumented people. Former DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni, in a whistleblower letter to Congress, alleged Bove made these comments in mid-March during discussions about invoking the Alien Enemies Act. Reuveni further claimed he witnessed DOJ officials systematically undermining court orders through lack of candor, deliberate delay, and disinformation, and that he was fired on April 11 after refusing to misrepresent facts in court filings.
• DOJ official Emil Bove stated DOJ would ignore court orders on deportations — DOJ lawyer Erez Reuveni, who was subsequently fired, came forward as a whistleblower to Congress and the DOJ inspector general. Reuveni stated that senior DOJ official Emil Bove announced plans to invoke the Alien Enemies Act for swift deportations and, when asked about potential judicial intervention, said the DOJ might have to tell courts "fuck you" and proceed with deportations regardless of legal injunctions. Reuveni reported that the statement was met with stunned silence among senior DOJ officials present.
• New York Times reported DOJ official Emil Bove told subordinates to ignore court orders — On June 24, the New York Times reported on a whistleblower complaint alleging that senior Justice Department official Emil Bove told his subordinates he would ignore court orders to further Trump's mass deportation efforts. Bove, who once served as Trump's criminal defense attorney and was recently nominated to serve as a federal appeals judge, later denied the comments during his confirmation hearing, saying "I have never advised a Department of Justice attorney to violate a court order."
• DOJ whistleblower Erez Reuveni filed complaint about defying court orders — On June 24, 2025, Erez Reuveni, a former Department of Justice lawyer, filed an official whistleblower complaint alleging that DOJ leaders and the White House deliberately defied court orders and "engaged in unlawful activity, abused their authority, created substantial and specific threat to health and safety." Reuveni was fired after telling a court that the administration had made an error when it rendered Maryland man Kilmar Abrego Garcia to CECOT despite a court order not to do so. In the complaint, Reuveni alleged that Emil Bove insisted planes carrying men to El Salvador must take off and said DOJ "would need to consider telling the courts 'f*ck you' and ignore any such court order."
• Bove fired DOJ prosecutors who investigated January 6 Capitol attack — Emil Bove issued a memo terminating dozens of DOJ prosecutors who had worked on cases related to the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, characterizing their prosecutions as a "grave national injustice." Bove justified the firings by claiming the prosecutors had been hired as temporary employees under the Biden administration and converted to permanent status, and that they were preventing a particular U.S. attorney from fully staffing his office. The terminations were carried out in furtherance of a Trump executive order.
• Whistleblower complaint filed alleging DOJ official directed defiance of court orders — Former DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni filed a whistleblower complaint alleging that Emil Bove, principal associate deputy attorney general, instructed prosecutors to disregard judicial rulings against Trump's immigration policies. The complaint surfaced hours before Bove's Senate confirmation hearing for a federal appeals court judgeship. Bove denied the allegations under oath, stating he has "never advised a Department of Justice attorney to violate a court order."
• Emil Bove denies whistleblower allegations of directing DOJ staff to defy court orders on immigration — Emil Bove, principal associate deputy attorney general and Trump's nominee for federal appeals court judge, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on June 25, 2025, denying a whistleblower complaint filed by former DOJ attorney Erez Reuveni. Reuveni alleged Bove instructed prosecutors to tell courts "fuck you" when ruling against Trump's immigration policies. Bove also denied Democratic allegations that he dropped corruption charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams to secure his cooperation with immigration enforcement. Republicans signaled support for his nomination while Democrats characterized him as weaponizing the DOJ against Trump's political opponents.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration sued federal judges in Maryland over deportation order — On June 24, the Trump administration sued every federal judge in Maryland, challenging an order blocking them from immediately deporting any immigrant in the state who is challenging their removal through a habeas petition. The administration is arguing that the pause violates a Supreme Court ruling.
• Department of Justice files complaint against U.S. District Court of Maryland over automatic immigration injunctions — The Department of Justice announced filing a complaint against the U.S. District Court of Maryland, challenging a "Standing Order" that automatically issues injunctions against federal immigration enforcement actions. The court's order requires automatic injunctions for habeas petitions filed by detained aliens in Maryland. DOJ argues the order violates procedural requirements, congressional intent, and Supreme Court precedent. Attorney General Pamela Bondi characterized the order as judicial overreach undermining executive authority and the democratic process.
• Trump DOJ sues Maryland federal judiciary over deportation stay order — The Trump Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the entire bench of Maryland federal judges, challenging an order issued by Chief Judge George Russell that bars deportation of undocumented immigrants for at least one day after they file legal challenges to their detention. The DOJ characterized the judicial order as "unlawful" and an improper use of equitable powers. The lawsuit specifically names Judge Paula Xinis, who is overseeing a high-profile case involving Salvadoran national Kilmar Ábrego García and considering sanctions against government officials for refusing to facilitate his release.

Supporting reports

• Arrest of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander by ICE and FBI Agents — On June 17, 2025, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander was arrested by ICE and FBI agents outside a federal immigration court in New York. Lander was detained while questioning officers about a judicial warrant for an immigrant he was accompanying. Despite being accused of assaulting law enforcement, video evidence showed officers aggressively handling Lander. He was released after four hours without charges. The incident is part of a pattern where DHS accuses prominent figures of assault without filing charges, raising concerns about intimidation tactics.
• Arrest of New York City mayoral candidate Brad Lander by ICE agents — Brad Lander, New York City's comptroller and mayoral candidate, was arrested by ICE agents at an immigration court in New York City. Lander was accompanying an immigrant, Edgardo, whose case had been dismissed pending appeal. Lander was charged with assaulting law enforcement and impeding a federal officer, although he denied these charges. The arrest sparked protests and criticism from various political figures, who described the arrest as an abuse of power. The charges against Lander were later dropped, and he was released from custody.
• NYC Comptroller Arrested by ICE — New York City Comptroller Brad Lander was arrested by ICE agents while escorting an individual from immigration court. Lander was accused of assaulting law enforcement, but footage disputes these claims. His arrest raises concerns about the treatment of public officials.
• Arrest of New York City comptroller Brad Lander at federal immigration court — Brad Lander, the New York City comptroller and mayoral candidate, was arrested by federal agents at a federal immigration court. Lander was detained for hours after attempting to accompany a Spanish-speaking immigrant out of the courtroom. The DHS accused him of assaulting law enforcement and impeding a federal officer, charges which Lander denies. Following his release, New York's governor, Kathy Hochul, criticized the arrest, and the charges against Lander were reportedly dropped.
• Arrest of New York City Comptroller Brad Lander by ICE Agents — On June 18, 2025, New York City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander was arrested by ICE agents while attempting to shield an immigrant, Edgardo, from arrest at a courthouse. Lander was detained for a few hours before being released without charges, while Edgardo remained in ICE detention. The arrest, which was captured on video, sparked widespread condemnation and was seen as part of the Trump administration's intensified immigration enforcement efforts targeting outspoken Democratic politicians. Lander's arrest has increased his visibility in the ongoing New York City mayoral race.

Supporting reports

• ICE raids and detentions in Los Angeles — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted raids in Los Angeles, targeting areas such as a swap meet in Santa Fe Springs and the suburb of Montebello. During these operations, ICE detained individuals, including US citizens, sparking accusations of racial profiling. The raids are part of a broader escalation of immigration enforcement in Democratic-run cities, as ordered by President Trump. The actions have led to widespread fear and anxiety in affected communities, with reports of people avoiding public spaces and work due to the presence of heavily armed agents.
• ICE Raids on Home Depot Workers in Los Angeles — Federal immigration agents conducted raids at Home Depot parking lots in Los Angeles, targeting undocumented immigrant workers. These raids, which began in January and have intensified over the past week, have led to the arrest and detention of numerous day laborers, causing fear and disruption among the immigrant community. The raids have sparked protests and have been criticized for their aggressive tactics, including the alleged barring of lawyers and congressional representatives from accessing detainees. The raids have significantly impacted the local economy and community dynamics, with many workers and vendors avoiding the area out of fear.
• Federal immigration officers conduct raids in Los Angeles — On June 6, 2025, federal immigration officers began conducting raids in Los Angeles, targeting Latino parishes and other locations. These actions are part of a broader immigration crackdown under the Trump administration, which has led to the arrest of at least 330 immigrants in the area. The raids have sparked protests and mobilization among faith leaders and community members, who are providing support and resources to undocumented immigrants affected by the raids. The Trump administration had previously overturned a policy limiting migrant arrests at sensitive locations, such as churches.
• ICE Raids Detain Migrant Workers in Los Angeles — In a series of raids across Los Angeles, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained over 40 migrant workers at a garment factory, instilling fear among local students and families. The raids have led to heightened anxiety within mixed-status families, prompting educators to become advocates and resource distributors for affected students. The situation has sparked protests and a response from the Trump administration, which has sent the National Guard and Marines to the area.

Supporting reports

• ICE ordered to increase migrant arrests under Stephen Miller's directive — Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff in the Trump administration, directed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to increase migrant arrests, targeting locations like Home Depot and 7-Eleven stores. This directive aimed for a minimum of 3,000 arrests per day, exceeding previous estimates and raising concerns about potential wrongful arrests. The intensified enforcement reflects Miller's influence on immigration policy and has led to a significant increase in ICE's arrest rate, broadening the profile of those targeted.
• Trump directs ICE to increase immigration enforcement — In late May 2025, top Trump aide Stephen Miller directed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to increase arrests of undocumented immigrants to 3,000 per day, significantly raising the agency's enforcement levels. This directive led to ICE targeting workplaces in industries known for employing undocumented workers, such as agriculture and hospitality. The increase in enforcement was part of Trump's broader immigration policy during the 2024 campaign. Source: https://popular.info/p/trumps-abrupt-policy-switch-on-immigration Category: Law Enforcement & Surveillance Why Relevant: This action represents a significant escalation in immigration enforcement, impacting the lives of many undocumented workers and the industries that rely on them. attacks: [workers]

Supporting reports

• US judge denies release of detained Palestinian activist — A federal judge has denied the release of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and green-card holder, who has been detained since March without being charged with a crime. Despite a previous ruling that the Trump administration could not detain him on claims of posing a threat to US foreign policy, the government continues to hold him based on allegations of lying on his green-card application. Khalil's lawyers argue that these claims are a pretext for his detention due to his pro-Palestinian activism. The judge suggested seeking bail from a Louisiana immigration judge.

Supporting reports

• California Senator Alex Padilla forcibly removed from DHS press conference — California Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed by federal agents from a Department of Homeland Security press conference while attempting to ask Secretary Kristi Noem a question. Padilla was performing congressional oversight of federal operations in Los Angeles related to the deployment of troops and ICE raids. He was handcuffed and forced to the ground but not detained. Padilla's office stated that he was exercising his duty to oversee federal government actions.
• California Senator Alex Padilla removed from press conference — During a press conference, California Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed by federal agents when he attempted to ask questions about the immigration raids. Padilla, a ranking member of the judiciary subcommittee on immigration, was restrained and taken out of the room by Secret Service agents. The incident has drawn condemnation from California leaders and raised concerns about the suppression of political dissent and oversight.
• Democratic Senator Forcibly Removed from News Conference — Democratic Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed and handcuffed during a news conference held by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The incident raises concerns about the treatment of elected officials and the suppression of dissent.

Supporting reports

• DOJ indicts Representative LaMonica McIver — The Department of Justice announced the indictment of Representative LaMonica McIver on three counts of "forcibly impeding and interfering with federal law enforcement officers" during a protest at an ICE detention center. McIver claims the charges are politically motivated.
• Indictment and Charges Against LaMonica McIver — LaMonica McIver, a Democratic representative, was indicted and charged with assaulting and interfering with immigration officers following an oversight visit to the Delaney Hall detention center in Newark, New Jersey. McIver has described the charges as a "brazen attempt at political intimidation." The indictment follows her arrest shortly after the center's reopening, which has been controversial due to alleged safety risks and lack of proper permits. The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and oversight.

Supporting reports

• Speaker Mike Johnson comments on Gavin Newsom — Speaker Mike Johnson stated that California Governor Gavin Newsom should be "tarred and feathered" in response to a question about whether he should be arrested. Johnson declined to provide legal analysis on the matter. Newsom responded by criticizing the suggestion as a medieval form of punishment and emphasized the importance of due process.

Supporting reports

• Trump Administration Opens Investigation into California's Trans Athlete Law — The Justice Department announced an investigation into California to determine if a state law allowing trans athletes to compete in girls' sports violates Title IX. This follows Trump's executive order banning trans athletes from girls' and women's sports.

Supporting reports

• Appeal filed — D.V.D. v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security (D. Mass.) 1:25-cv-10676 — The government appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court to stay the district court's April 18 preliminary injunction .
• Trump Administration Files Emergency Appeal to Supreme Court on Deportations — The Trump administration filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court seeking to lift due process orders issued by federal judges, which would make it easier to deport immigrants to countries other than their own. This move follows similar legal strategies used in contested state elections.
• White House Requests Supreme Court to Block Deportation Challenges — The Trump administration has appealed to the US Supreme Court to block a federal judge's order that allows individuals to challenge their deportations to South Sudan. This request follows a ruling by Judge Brian Murphy, who found that the administration violated a court order by deporting individuals to South Sudan without allowing them to express fears of danger. The administration argues that the court's requirements hinder its diplomatic efforts to deport individuals who cannot return to their home countries. The case highlights tensions between the judiciary and the administration over immigration policies.

Supporting reports

• Republicans attempt to pass significant budget bill — Republicans in Congress attempted to advance a budget measure dubbed “One, Big, Beautiful Bill,” which aimed to extend Trump’s tax cuts at a projected cost of $4.6 trillion over ten years while raising the debt ceiling by $4 trillion. The bill faced opposition and ultimately failed to advance out of the House Budget Committee.
• House Budget Committee passes bill in late-night session — The House Budget Committee passed a budget bill after a late-night session, with some members who previously voted 'No' changing their votes to 'Present.' The bill is set to face further scrutiny in the Rules Committee.
• Republicans criticized for scheduling votes at odd hours — Several Democratic representatives criticized Republicans for scheduling votes on significant legislation during late-night hours, suggesting a lack of transparency and public engagement in the legislative process.
• House Committee Advances Trump’s Tax Cut Bill — On May 18, 2025, a key House committee passed a tax cut and border security package, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, after reaching an agreement with far-right Republicans who had previously stalled its progress. The bill, which aims to extend tax breaks from Trump's first term and increase spending on border security, faces challenges in the full House due to potential opposition from moderates concerned about cuts to climate incentives and healthcare programs. The bill's passage is crucial for Republicans, who need to unite their party to pass it before the Memorial Day deadline.
• House Budget Committee Passes Controversial Bill — The House Budget Committee passed a bill referred to as the “Big, Beautiful Bill” on a party-line vote, with 17 Republicans in favor and 16 Democrats against. The bill includes cuts to Medicaid and extends tax cuts for the wealthy, which the Congressional Budget Office estimates will significantly increase the federal deficit. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated minor modifications would be made, while critics argue the bill is being rushed through Congress without adequate scrutiny.
• House Republicans schedule procedural vote on Trump's bill — House Republicans have scheduled a procedural vote for 1am on Wednesday to advance President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which aims to enact his taxation and immigration priorities. The bill includes making permanent or extending tax cuts, ending taxation of tips and overtime, funding a border wall, and mass deportations. It proposes slashing federal safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP to offset costs, which has caused division among Republicans. The bill's passage is crucial for Trump, but it faces opposition from some lawmakers concerned about its impact on Medicaid and the SALT deduction.
• House Rules Committee to Consider Omnibus Bill — The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet on May 21, 2025, to discuss a 1,116-page omnibus bill proposed by Republicans that aims to implement significant parts of former President Trump's agenda, including cuts to Medicaid and increased logging on public lands. The bill is being advanced through a budget reconciliation process, which allows it to pass with only Republican votes in the Senate. However, there is notable division among Republicans regarding the proposed Medicaid cuts, which are unpopular among constituents.
• House passes Budget Reconciliation Bill — The House of Representatives passed the Budget Reconciliation Bill by a narrow margin of 215-214, with two Republicans voting against it and one voting present. The bill's passage is significant as it will now move to the Senate, where Republican opposition is anticipated.
• Congressional Republicans pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — Congressional Republicans narrowly passed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act with a 215-214 vote. The bill aims to permanently extend tax cuts from Trump's first term and introduce new deductions for working-class families, but these benefits will expire in 2028. The bill also includes cuts to social safety net programs, potentially affecting millions of poor and disabled Americans. The legislation is expected to add $3.4 trillion to the deficit by 2034. It now moves to the US Senate for further consideration under the budget reconciliation procedure, which limits Democratic influence.
• House Passes Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" Act — The House of Representatives, controlled by Republicans, passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" act, which enacts President Donald Trump's taxation and spending priorities. The bill includes making permanent the tax cuts from Trump's first term, increasing the standard deduction, and introducing new tax write-offs. It also allocates significant funds for mass deportations and border wall construction, imposes new fees on immigrants seeking asylum, and restricts federal courts from enforcing certain contempt citations. Additionally, it cuts funding for Medicaid and SNAP, phases out green energy incentives, and raises the debt ceiling by $4 trillion. The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate.
• House Passes Trump's Tax Bill — On May 22, 2025, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a tax bill championed by Donald Trump, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This legislation aims to make permanent the tax cuts established in 2017, which primarily benefit wealthy Americans and corporations. The bill also includes cuts to government assistance programs like Medicaid and SNAP, and ends clean energy tax credits. The bill is expected to cost the federal government $4.6 trillion in lost revenue over the next decade, while saving $1 trillion through reduced spending on assistance programs.
• House passes Trump's tax-and-spend bill — On May 22, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a tax-and-spend bill, which extends Trump's 2017 tax cuts and makes significant spending reductions, particularly in Medicaid and food assistance programs. The bill passed without any Democratic support and has been criticized for potentially increasing the national debt by $2.4 trillion over the next decade. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis indicates that the bill would leave 10.9 million more Americans uninsured by 2034. The bill now moves to the Senate, where modifications are expected.
• House passes Trump’s sweeping tax-cut bill — The House of Representatives passed a major tax-cut bill, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which aligns with Donald Trump's tax and spending priorities. The bill, passed by a narrow margin of 215-214, includes provisions for tax cuts for individuals and corporations, funding for a border wall, and new work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP. It is expected to add $2.3 trillion to the deficit. The bill now moves to the Senate, where Republicans aim to pass it by July 4th.
• House Committee Advances Bill with Steeper Medicaid Cuts — After extensive debate, the House Rules Committee agreed to advance The One Big, Beautiful Bill, which includes steeper cuts to Medicaid to gain support from far-right Republicans. These cuts are expected to leave at least 9 million people without healthcare coverage, reflecting a significant shift in healthcare policy.
• House of Representatives passes Republicans' megabill — The House of Representatives passed a significant bill by a vote of 215 to 214, with all Democrats and two Republicans voting against it. The bill includes substantial cuts to healthcare and nutrition assistance, with the Congressional Budget Office estimating that it will result in over 2.7 million households losing benefits. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
• House Rules Committee Begins Hearing on The One Big, Beautiful Bill — The House Rules Committee commenced a hearing on a budget bill dubbed The One Big, Beautiful Bill, which includes significant restrictions on federal courts' authority to hold government officials in contempt for violating court orders. This bill also proposes a $3.8 trillion extension of tax cuts from 2017, primarily benefiting the wealthy and corporations, while cutting federal healthcare and food assistance programs, potentially leaving millions without coverage. The committee moved the bill forward after 22 hours of debate, aiming for a swift vote in the House.
• House Republicans Pass Bill Cutting Medicaid and Medicare — In a late-night session, House Republicans passed a bill that could remove 8 million people from Medicaid, cut Medicare spending, and add $4 trillion to the national debt. The bill also includes tax cuts for the wealthy and funds for the border wall.
• Congressional Budget Office Reports on Impact of Proposed Bill — The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that the proposed budget bill will add $2.3 trillion to the federal deficit over the next ten years and will trigger cuts to Medicare due to the Pay-As-You-Go law. These cuts, limited by law to 4%, are expected to total approximately $490 billion from 2027 through 2034. The CBO's findings highlight the bill's potential negative impact on low-income Americans and the healthcare system.
• Proposed Cuts to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — The proposed budget bill includes cuts of about 30% to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which would be the largest cut in the program's history. This reduction is projected to cut approximately $300 billion from the program through 2034, affecting over 40 million people, including children and seniors.
• House passes Trump’s budget bill with significant cuts — The House of Representatives passed a budget bill that extends tax cuts for individuals and corporations while implementing funding cuts and new work requirements for Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These changes are expected to bar millions from receiving essential benefits, raising concerns among affected workers and advocates. The bill also includes funding for a border wall and facilities for mass deportations.

Supporting reports

• Trump orders reopening of Alcatraz prison for ‘most ruthless offenders’ — Donald Trump announced a directive to reopen and expand Alcatraz prison, located on an island off San Francisco, to house America's most dangerous criminals. The prison, closed since 1963 due to operational costs and escape attempts, is now a national park and tourist attraction. Trump's plan has been criticized by California Democrats and civil rights advocates as a political distraction and an attack on the rule of law. The Bureau of Prisons, Department of Justice, FBI, and Homeland Security have been directed to implement this plan, though its feasibility and seriousness are questioned.
• Trump directs reopening of Alcatraz as a federal prison — President Donald J. Trump announced on his social media feed that he is directing the Bureau of Prisons, the Department of Justice, FBI, and Homeland Security to reopen Alcatraz as a federal prison to house violent offenders. This announcement is framed as a symbol of law and order, although the island has not been used as a prison since 1963. The announcement appears to be a distraction from declining popularity in rural areas and other controversies surrounding his administration.

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• DoJ closes cryptocurrency unit amid political pressure — In April, the Department of Justice abruptly closed its cryptocurrency unit, which had been active since 2022 in prosecuting criminal schemes involving North Korean hackers. The closure followed criticism from cryptocurrency leaders who supported Trump's campaign, raising concerns about the influence of political donations on law enforcement priorities.
• DoJ halts prosecutions under Foreign Corrupt Practices Act — The Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, has paused prosecutions of businesses charged with violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) for six months. This decision aligns with President Trump's agenda and has sparked criticism for potentially favoring business interests over legal accountability, further indicating the politicization of the justice department.

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• US charges migrants for entering military buffer zone on Mexico border — The US Department of Justice has initiated criminal prosecutions against at least 28 migrants for entering a newly established military buffer zone along the US-Mexico border. These charges were filed in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The buffer zone, which spans 170 miles and is 60 feet wide, is patrolled by active-duty US troops. The establishment of this zone has been criticized by civil liberties groups as an erosion of constitutional principles, as it allows military involvement in civilian policing without invoking the Insurrection Act.

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• ICE Deportations Separate Families, Including U.S. Citizen Children — Recent ICE deportations have separated families, including U.S. citizen children, from their immigrant mothers. The deportations occurred swiftly, with little opportunity for legal recourse, and have raised concerns about the treatment of immigrant families and the impact on children, some of whom have serious health issues.
• ICE Deports US Citizen Child and Mother — ICE officials deported a 4-year-old US citizen with cancer and his mother without the child's medication, along with two Honduran-born mothers and their US-born children, and a Cuban-born mother separated from her 1-year-old. These deportations raise significant human rights and legal concerns.
• ICE Deports U.S. Citizen Children to Honduras — Early on April 26, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported three U.S. citizen children, aged 2, 4, and 7, to Honduras after their mothers were arrested during a routine immigration check. One of the children, who has Stage 4 cancer, was sent without medication or medical consultation. The mothers were not allowed to communicate with family or lawyers before the deportation. This incident follows a similar case in March where four U.S. citizen children were sent to Mexico with their undocumented parents.
• Deportation of Mothers and US Citizen Children to Honduras — Two women and their US citizen children were deported to Honduras without being given the opportunity to transfer custody of their children to another parent or caregiver. The deportations occurred after the women were detained at regular check-in appointments with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New Orleans. The families were held in isolation and denied communication with attorneys or family members. An emergency motion was filed to prevent the deportation of a two-year-old US citizen, leading to a federal judge expressing concerns about the lack of due process.

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• FBI arrests Wisconsin judge for obstructing immigration officials — On Friday, the FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on charges of obstruction after she allegedly helped a man evade US immigration authorities at her courthouse. The arrest took place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was confirmed by the US Marshals Service. The FBI director accused Judge Dugan of intentionally misdirecting federal agents, allowing the individual, Eduardo Flores Ruiz, to evade arrest temporarily. Dugan was released after a brief court appearance and is scheduled to appear again on May 15. The arrest has sparked significant controversy and criticism from local officials and politicians.
• FBI Arrests Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan — The FBI arrested Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan, accusing her of helping a man evade US immigration officers at her courthouse. The arrest has sparked political controversy, with Republicans calling for her removal and Democrats condemning the arrest as an overreach of executive power. The arrest was part of the Trump administration's broader crackdown on immigration, which has been criticized for undermining judicial independence. The FBI director posted a photo of Dugan in handcuffs, emphasizing that "no one is above the law."

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• Judge Garnett cautions prosecutors against prejudicial public commentary in Mangione murder trial — During a 25 April proceeding in Luigi Mangione's federal murder trial for the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Judge Margaret M Garnett issued a directive to prosecutors barring "public commentary that could impede Mr Mangione's right to a fair trial." The caution followed Attorney General Pam Bondi's public statements seeking the death penalty and describing the killing as a "premeditated, cold-blooded assassination." Garnett instructed prosecutors to convey her directive to acting Manhattan federal prosecutor Jay Clayton and to request he relay it to Bondi and her associates.
• Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to federal murder charges in Manhattan federal court — Luigi Mangione, 26, appeared before Judge Margaret M Garnett in Manhattan federal court and entered a not-guilty plea to charges of stalking and murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced prosecutors would seek the death penalty, citing Trump's "agenda to stop violent crime." The judge cautioned prosecutors against inflammatory statements that could prejudice a fair trial and directed them to comply with local court rules. Defense counsel raised concerns about alleged eavesdropping on privileged attorney-client communications.
• Attorney General Bondi directs prosecutors to seek death penalty in Mangione case — Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that federal prosecutors would seek the death penalty against Luigi Mangione for the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Bondi characterized the killing as "a premeditated, cold-blooded assassination" and stated the decision aligned with "President Trump's agenda to stop violent crime and Make America Safe Again." The judge subsequently cautioned prosecutors against making inflammatory public statements that could impede Mangione's right to a fair trial.
• Defense counsel alleges eavesdropping on privileged attorney-client communications — During the federal court proceeding, Mangione's lead defense attorney Karen Friedman Agnifilo alleged that state court prosecutors had been eavesdropping on all of Mangione's calls, including privileged communications with his attorney. She stated prosecutors claimed the eavesdropping was inadvertent. Judge Garnett directed prosecutors to file a letter within seven days outlining what they knew about the alleged recording and asked prosecutors to prevent future breaches of attorney-client privilege.

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• Trump issues memorandum directing attorney general to investigate ActBlue for alleged foreign contributions — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum on Thursday directing the attorney general to investigate ActBlue, the largest Democratic online fundraising platform, for alleged "straw," "dummy," and foreign contributions to U.S. political candidates. The memo targets unsubstantiated claims circulated by right-wing figures and lawmakers. ActBlue's leadership stated the organization anticipated this action and characterized it as part of efforts to weaken Democratic fundraising capacity ahead of midterm elections.
• Trump issued memorandum directing investigation into unlawful straw donor and foreign contributions in American elections — President Trump issued a presidential memorandum directing the Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, to investigate allegations of unlawful use of online fundraising platforms to make "straw" or "dummy" contributions or foreign contributions to political candidates and committees. The memorandum cites press reports and congressional investigations alleging that platforms like ActBlue have facilitated schemes to launder excessive and prohibited contributions by breaking down large contributions into smaller ones attributed to other individuals, potentially without their knowledge or consent, and that foreign nationals have misused such platforms. The Attorney General is directed to report findings within 180 days.
• White House issues fact sheet on presidential memorandum directing investigation of straw donor and foreign contributions — The White House published a fact sheet on April 24, 2025, describing a Presidential Memorandum signed by President Trump directing the Attorney General to investigate allegations of unlawful "straw donor" and foreign contributions to U.S. political candidates through online fundraising platforms, particularly ActBlue. The memorandum cites congressional investigations and claims of fraud schemes, including donations from foreign IP addresses during the 2024 election cycle. The fact sheet asserts that ActBlue maintained lax verification standards and that state attorneys general have opened related investigations.
• Trump directed DOJ to investigate ActBlue — President Trump ordered the Department of Justice to investigate ActBlue, the fundraising platform used by Democratic candidates and causes, citing unsubstantiated claims that the platform accepts straw and foreign donations. The order targets Democratic fundraising infrastructure and reflects Trump's repeated assertions, made without evidence, about ActBlue's alleged acceptance of improper contributions.

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• Trump publicly rejects due process requirement for deportations; conservative allies call for ignoring courts and removing judges — Trump stated on Tuesday that he did not believe due process was a requirement before deporting someone, saying judges cannot require trials before deportation. Separately, conservative figures including Sean Davis (CEO of the Federalist) and Mike Davis (Article III Project) posted on X calling for the president to ignore the Supreme Court and suggesting judges should be deported. Steve Deace, a prominent conservative talk-show host, argued Trump was entitled to ignore court orders. These statements represent explicit rejection of judicial authority and rule of law.

Supporting reports

• Judge Boasberg orders government not to deport men to CECOT; administration defies order — Judge James Boasberg issued an order prohibiting the government from deporting men to CECOT and instructing that if planes were already airborne, they be turned around. The administration proceeded with deportations despite the judicial order. On April 16, Boasberg issued an opinion concluding that probable cause exists to find the government in criminal contempt of court for defying his order.
• US District Judge James Boasberg finds probable cause of contempt against Trump administration for defying deportation halt orders — US District Judge James Boasberg found probable cause to hold the Trump administration in contempt of court for defying his orders to halt deportations. Boasberg outlined a series of escalating punitive actions he could take against Trump officials, though an appellate court has paused the contempt process while the administration appeals.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration argued it has no obligation to return mistakenly deported Kilmar Abrego Garcia — The Trump administration argued it has no legal obligation to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the US, falsely claiming it only has to admit him into the country if the El Salvador government chooses to release him. This position contradicts the administration's own admission in court that Abrego Garcia's deportation was a mistake and defies subsequent court orders.

Supporting reports

• FBI arrests Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan on obstruction allegations related to immigration enforcement — The FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on Friday, April 18, 2025, alleging she obstructed federal immigration officers attempting to arrest a defendant in her courtroom. According to the criminal complaint, Dugan directed the defendant and his attorney to a private exit to evade the arrest team. FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photograph of Dugan in handcuffs on social media. Republicans called for her removal; Democrats condemned the arrest as an attack on judicial independence and weaponization of federal law enforcement by the Trump administration.
• FBI Director Kash Patel posts photograph of arrested judge on social media — FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photograph of Judge Hannah Dugan in handcuffs on Twitter/X on Friday night with the caption "No one is above the law." The post served as a public signal that the Trump administration welcomed a political confrontation over the judge's arrest and framed the arrest as enforcement of equal accountability.