Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Gwynne Wilcox sues Trump and NLRB chair over dismissal — Gwynne Wilcox, a former member of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), has filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump and Marvin Kaplan, the NLRB chair, following her dismissal. Wilcox claims her removal was politically motivated and violated the National Labor Relations Act. Her lawsuit seeks an injunction for her reinstatement, arguing that her termination undermines the NLRB's independence and leaves the board unable to function due to a lack of quorum. The White House justified the dismissal by labeling Wilcox and others as "far-left appointees."

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• DOJ dismantles foreign bribery unit — Attorney General Pam Bondi has dismantled the Department of Justice's foreign bribery unit, which was responsible for investigating and monitoring foreign interference in U.S. elections. The unit is now limited to investigating cases involving drugs or trafficking under Bondi's new directive. This move has raised concerns about the DOJ's ability to address foreign interference in American affairs.
• DOJ eliminates Kleptocracy Initiative — The Department of Justice, under Attorney General Pam Bondi, has eliminated the Kleptocracy Initiative, which was responsible for seizing assets from Russian oligarchs under sanctions. The initiative had recovered billions in stolen assets since 2010. The funds from these seizures are reportedly being redirected to fund new detention facilities in Guantanamo Bay and Texas.
• DOJ scales back enforcement of Foreign Agents Registration Act — Following the disbanding of the Foreign Influence Task Force, the Justice Department under Bondi announced a scaling back of enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), which requires individuals receiving foreign government funds to disclose their connections. This change could facilitate foreign influence in U.S. politics.
• Trump disbands FBI’s Foreign Influence Task Force — On February 6, 2025, Pam Bondi, newly appointed attorney general, disbanded the FBI’s Foreign Influence Task Force, which was established to combat foreign interference in U.S. politics. This decision reduces the government's capacity to address foreign threats to democracy.
• Trump administration scales back enforcement of white-collar crimes — Under Attorney General Pam Bondi, the Justice Department is scaling back enforcement of white-collar crimes, including bribery of foreign officials and money laundering, while prioritizing human smuggling and drug cartels. This shift invites foreign interference in American affairs.

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• Trump declares US will 'take over' Gaza — During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Donald Trump announced that the United States will "take over" the Gaza Strip. This declaration marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, suggesting a potential military and administrative intervention in the region. Trump's statement included plans to develop Gaza, creating jobs and transforming it into an international hub. The announcement has been met with opposition from Palestinians and neighboring countries, raising concerns about the implications for regional stability and international relations.
• Trump proposes U.S. takeover of Gaza Strip — Following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump announced plans for the U.S. to take over the Gaza Strip, suggesting military involvement to facilitate this takeover. His comments have drawn widespread criticism from lawmakers across the political spectrum.
• Trump outlines plan for U.S. control of Gaza — Trump detailed a plan for the U.S. to take control of Gaza from Israel post-conflict, proposing resettlement of Palestinians and development projects. The plan has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a potential solution and others as problematic and unrealistic.
• Trump proposes takeover of Gaza — President Trump suggested that the United States should take over Gaza and transform it into a resort area, a statement that alarmed his advisors and was made without any prior planning or consultation with relevant government departments. This proposal was met with skepticism and concern regarding its feasibility and implications for U.S. foreign policy.
• Trump announced plan to "take over" Gaza — Donald Trump announced a plan for the United States to "take over" Gaza, a move that has been welcomed by Israel's pro-settler movement. This announcement marks a shift in US policy, aligning with pro-settler advisers and suggesting support for the annexation of Palestinian territories. The plan has been criticized as advocating for ethnic cleansing and has surprised both Trump's aides and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The proposal has been described as a serious shift towards pro-settler policies, with implications for US-Israel relations and the ongoing conflict in the region.
• Trump proposes Gaza plan and threatens tariffs — Former President Trump has proposed a controversial plan regarding Gaza and has threatened to impose tariffs. These actions are seen as distractions from the ongoing issues related to the US Treasury and government control.

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• US Postal Service halts packages from China and Hong Kong — The US Postal Service temporarily suspended incoming parcels from China and Hong Kong, resuming normal service the following day. This action occurred amid escalating trade tensions between the US and China, with accusations from Beijing of "unreasonable suppression." The suspension was likely related to the elimination of the de minimis duty-free exemption for low-value packages, impacting US consumer orders. The USPS did not provide specific reasons for the suspension. The incident is part of a broader trade conflict involving tariffs and countermeasures between the two nations.

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• Federal Judge Halts Funding Freeze — A federal judge halted a funding freeze imposed by the Trump administration, suggesting it was a blatant violation of the Constitution. This ruling comes in response to the administration's attempts to change government priorities through illegal impoundment.
• Temporary restraining order ruling — National Council of Nonprofits v. Office of Management and Budget (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00239 — Judge Alikhan issued a temporary restraining order blocking the OMB from implementing its funding freeze, finding that the Plaintiffs are likely to succeed in their claim that the directive was arbitrary and capricious under the APA, and that the post-complaint rescission of the memorandum was “disingenuous” and still causing irreparable injury. The order directed the OMB to release the frozen funds, notify agencies of this TRO, and file a status report on compliance by Feb. 7, 2025.
• Federal court blocks Trump administration's funding freeze — Judge Loren L. AliKhan of the Federal District Court for the District of Columbia blocked the Trump administration's attempt to freeze trillions of dollars in grants and loans, stating that such actions violate the 1974 law that restricts impounding funds.

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• Federal judge halts Trump's birthright citizenship order — A federal judge, Deborah Boardman, issued a temporary injunction against Donald Trump's executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. This decision follows a similar ruling by another judge in Washington state. The order, which interprets the 14th Amendment in a way that no court has previously endorsed, has faced lawsuits from 22 states and various advocacy groups. The injunction prevents the order from taking effect while legal challenges proceed.
• Case update — Casa v. Donald Trump (D. Md.) 8:25-cv-00201 — Judge Deborah Boardman issued an opinion granting Plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary nationwide injunction blocking implementation of the birthright citizenship Executive Order.

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• US judge blocks transfer of trans women to men's prisons — A US district judge, Royce Lamberth, issued a temporary restraining order blocking the transfer of transgender women from women's to men's prisons, halting an executive order by Donald Trump. The order, which also barred access to hormone therapy, was challenged by three incarcerated trans women. The judge ruled that the order discriminates against transgender people and violates their constitutional rights. The ruling applies to 16 trans women currently housed in women's facilities, maintaining their housing and medical care as it was before January 20.
• Temporary restraining order ruling — Doe v. McHenry (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00286 — Judge Royce Lamberth issued a temporary restraining order and enjoined the government blocking it from transferring the plaintiffs or from discontinuing the plaintiffs' medical care.

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• FBI agents sue DOJ over retaliation fears — Two groups of unnamed FBI agents have filed lawsuits against the Department of Justice (DOJ) to prevent it from collecting information on agents involved in investigations related to the January 6 Capitol riot and Donald Trump's mishandling of classified documents. The lawsuits argue that the DOJ's actions could lead to retaliatory firings, violating civil service protections. The lawsuits were filed after Emil Bove, the acting deputy attorney general, ordered the FBI to compile a list of agents involved in these cases for personnel review.
• Case update — Federal Bureau of Investigation Agents Association; John Does 1-4; Jane Does 1-3 v. Department of Justice (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00328 — Judge Cobb ordered consolidation of this case and John and Jane Does 1-9 v. Department of Justice.
• Case update — John and Jane Does 1-9 v. Department of Justice (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00325 — Judge Jia Cobb ordered consolidation of this case and Federal Bureau of Investigation Agents Association v. Department of Justice .
• Preliminary injunction ruling — Federal Bureau of Investigation Agents Association; John Does 1-4; Jane Does 1-3 v. Department of Justice (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00328 — Judge Cobb issued a temporary restraining order , which had been mutually proposed by the parties. The TRO prohibits the government from publicly releasing any list before the court rules on whether to grant a preliminary injunction. The briefings for a preliminary injunction will be filed by March 21, 2025.
• Preliminary injunction ruling — John and Jane Does 1-9 v. Department of Justice (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00325 — Judge Jia Cobb issued a temporary restraining order , which had been mutually proposed by the parties. The TRO prohibits the government from publicly releasing any list before the court rules on whether to grant a preliminary injunction. The briefings for a preliminary injunction will be filed by March 21, 2025.

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• Protests planned against Trump’s immigration policies — In response to Trump’s immigration policies, a massive and peaceful protest took place in Los Angeles over the weekend. The protest aimed to demonstrate collective opposition to the administration's stance on immigration. Organizers emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful demonstrations to avoid provocation and potential legal repercussions, especially in states like North Carolina where new laws criminalize certain protest activities.

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• Trump administration pauses new regulations — The Trump administration, through Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, has paused all forthcoming regulations at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), including a rule designed to protect consumers from predatory medical debt practices. This pause threatens reforms aimed at preventing medical debt from appearing on credit reports, which could impact millions of Americans. The rule was scheduled to take effect in March, but its future is now uncertain due to the administration's actions. The debt collection industry, which opposes the rule, has lobbied for its delay or rescission.

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• Establishment of a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14196, directing the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce to develop a plan for a United States sovereign wealth fund. The plan aims to promote fiscal sustainability, reduce tax burdens, and enhance economic security and international leadership. The plan must be submitted to the President within 90 days and include recommendations on funding, investment strategies, and governance.
• Trump signs executive order to create sovereign wealth fund — On Monday, Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the US Treasury and Commerce Departments to establish a sovereign wealth fund. This fund is intended to act as an investment vehicle for the country, potentially being used to purchase the social media platform TikTok. The creation of the fund requires congressional approval, and its details, including funding sources, remain unspecified. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick are tasked with spearheading the fund's development, aiming to operationalize it within 12 months.
• Trump issues executive order to establish U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on February 3, 2025, directing the establishment of a United States Sovereign Wealth Fund. The order mandates the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, to develop a plan for the fund. This plan is to be submitted within 90 days and should include recommendations on funding mechanisms, investment strategies, and governance models. The initiative aims to promote fiscal sustainability, reduce tax burdens, and enhance U.S. economic leadership internationally.
• White House issued memorandum directing Treasury and Commerce to develop sovereign wealth fund plan — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on February 3, 2025, directing the Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of Commerce to jointly develop a plan for establishing a U.S. sovereign wealth fund within 90 days. The order states the fund aims to "maximize the stewardship of our national wealth for the sole benefit of American citizens," promote fiscal sustainability, reduce tax burdens, and establish economic security for future generations. The plan must include funding mechanisms, investment strategies, governance models, and legal considerations, including any legislative requirements.
• White House issues fact sheet on executive order directing sovereign wealth fund plan — The White House published a fact sheet on February 3, 2025, announcing that President Trump signed an executive order directing the Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of Commerce to deliver a plan within 90 days for creation of a U.S. sovereign wealth fund. The order directs the plan to include recommendations for funding mechanisms, investment strategies, fund structure, and governance. The fact sheet states the fund would leverage the federal government's $5.7 trillion in directly held assets and additional indirect asset value to promote fiscal sustainability and economic competitiveness.
• Trump ordered creation of sovereign wealth fund — On February 3, 2025, Trump ordered the US Treasury and Commerce Department to create a sovereign wealth fund operating outside the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department. The fund would require congressional approval and act as an investment vehicle for the country. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the government would "stand this thing up within the next 12 months." Trump suggested the fund could facilitate TikTok purchase but offered few details on funding sources.

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• Federal employee unions file lawsuit against Trump administration — Three federal employee unions have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that Elon Musk's "department of government efficiency" (Doge) was granted unprecedented access to sensitive government records. The lawsuit claims that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent violated federal privacy laws by allowing Musk's team full access to the Bureau of the Fiscal Service's confidential payment systems. The unions argue that this access puts millions of Americans' personal data at risk. The lawsuit was filed in federal court on Monday.
• Case update — Alliance for Retired Americans v. Scott Bessent et al (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00313 — The parties in the suit mutually proposed an order that Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly adopted. It limits access to Treasury Department payment records and systems to two (Musk-affiliated) Special Government Employees in the Department (“read-only” access), other employees who need to access the record to perform their duties, or individuals who are already entitled to access the records under statute.

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• Higher education groups file lawsuit against Trump administration — Higher education groups, including the American Association of University Professors and the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. The lawsuit challenges executive orders that eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) positions in government and threaten to suspend funding to institutions with DEI policies. Filed in the US district court in Maryland, the suit claims these orders violate the US Constitution, exceed executive authority, and threaten academic freedom and access to higher education.

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• US Senate confirms Chris Wright as energy secretary — The US Senate confirmed Chris Wright, CEO of Liberty Energy, as the energy secretary under Donald Trump's administration with a vote of 59-38. Wright, known for his controversial views on climate change, will oversee the Department of Energy, which manages a $50 billion budget, including the maintenance of the US nuclear weapons stockpile. Wright has been criticized for downplaying the effects of climate change, particularly in relation to wildfires in California. He will replace Jennifer Granholm, who supported renewable energy sources.
• US Senate confirms Pam Bondi as attorney general — The US Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as the attorney general with a 54-46 vote, largely along party lines. Bondi, a staunch ally of President Trump, will lead the Justice Department during Trump's second term. Her confirmation comes amid significant personnel changes within the department, including the firing of prosecutors involved in cases against Trump. Bondi has pledged to maintain the department's independence, but her ability to resist political pressure from the White House is under scrutiny. The department faces challenges with morale and concerns about becoming an extension of the White House.
• Confirmation of Pam Bondi as attorney general — The Senate confirmed Pam Bondi as attorney general, despite opposition from civil rights groups due to her history of anti-LGBTQ and anti-immigrant stances. The confirmation vote was largely along party lines, with one Democratic senator crossing over to support her.
• Senate finance committee advances RFK Jr's HHS nomination — The Senate finance committee voted to advance Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination as the Secretary of Health and Human Services. The vote was along party lines, with 14 Republicans supporting and 13 Democrats opposing. This advancement sets the stage for a full Senate vote. Kennedy's nomination has been controversial due to his past comments on vaccines and healthcare policies. Despite initial concerns, Republican Senator Bill Cassidy supported the nomination after receiving commitments from the administration. The full Senate vote is expected soon, with Kennedy likely to be confirmed given the Republican majority.
• US Senate confirms Russell Vought to lead OMB — The US Senate confirmed Russell Vought as the director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) with a 53-47 vote along party lines. Vought, a key figure in Project 2025, faced strong opposition from Democrats who fear he will work with Donald Trump to dismantle the federal government. Despite an all-night debate by Democrats, Vought's confirmation proceeded, raising concerns about potential overreach in federal funding decisions and the consolidation of executive power.
• Senate confirms Russell Vought as OMB director — Senate Republicans confirmed Russell Vought as the director of the Office of Management and Budget on February 6, 2025. Vought is known for his right-wing views and has been associated with Project 2025, which aims to reshape government functions.

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• Senate Democrats protest against Russell Vought's nomination — Senate Democrats held an all-night protest against Russell Vought, Trump's nominee to lead the White House budget office, due to his role in Project 2025, a conservative blueprint for Trump's second term. Despite their efforts, Vought was confirmed along party lines. The protest was part of a broader Democratic strategy to oppose Trump's agenda, which includes a now-rescinded order freezing federal loans and grants. Activists were pleased with the Democrats' increased resolve to challenge the administration's actions.
• Senate urged to block Russell Vought's OMB appointment — There is a concerted effort to pressure the Senate to block the appointment of Russell Vought as Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Vought, associated with Project 2025, is accused of planning to staff the government with loyalists and undermine agencies by withholding congressionally-allocated resources. His refusal to testify that he would prioritize the Constitution over Trump's demands has intensified opposition. The Senate is expected to vote on his confirmation soon, and public campaigns are urging Senators to reject his nomination.
• Senate filibuster against Russell Vought — Democratic senators, led by Chuck Schumer, initiated a filibuster to block the confirmation of Russell Vought as the director of the Office of Management and Budget. The senators expressed concerns that Vought's proposals would threaten critical federal funding for programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security.
• Legislation introduced to counter Musk's actions — Senator Chuck Schumer and Representative Hakeem Jeffries announced the introduction of legislation aimed at stopping Elon Musk's actions regarding the Treasury's payment systems. The proposed legislation, titled "Stop the Steal," seeks to protect Americans from potential abuses stemming from Musk's control over government financial operations.
• Senate to vote on Russell Vought's confirmation — The Senate is scheduled to vote on the confirmation of Russell Vought as the head of the Office of Management and Budget. Vought is criticized for his role in the Project 2025 agenda, which opponents argue could lead to policies detrimental to working families and democratic governance.
• Judge Griffin's Attempt to Overturn Supreme Court Election — Judge Griffin is reportedly attempting to overturn the results of a Supreme Court election in North Carolina by seeking to discard 65,000 votes. This action has been characterized as an outrageous power grab by the NC Supreme Court. The situation has prompted a campaign by Common Cause NC to raise awareness and ensure that affected voters are informed. The campaign highlights the importance of public vigilance and participation in safeguarding electoral integrity.
• Judge Griffins attempts to alter NC Supreme Court election — Judge Griffins is reportedly attempting to alter the outcome of the North Carolina Supreme Court election by targeting 60,000 votes, potentially affecting the election of Justice Alison Riggs. This action has prompted calls for public engagement and court attendance to ensure the integrity of the election process.
• Protests against government actions held nationwide — Nationwide protests have been held in response to recent government actions, including the seizure of the US Treasury and the potential confirmation of Russell Vought. These protests are described as peaceful expressions of First Amendment rights, with significant public participation.

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• El Salvador prison offer — Senator Marco Rubio announced that El Salvador has offered to incarcerate convicted US citizens in their prisons for a fee. This proposal raises ethical and legal questions about outsourcing incarceration to foreign countries.
• U.S. deal with El Salvador for deportees — Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a controversial agreement with El Salvador to send deportees of any nationality, including U.S. citizens, to a prison facility in El Salvador. This arrangement raises significant legal and ethical questions regarding the treatment of deportees and the implications for U.S. citizens.

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• Executive Order Against Transgender Rights — President Trump signed an executive order that purges transgender service members from the military and limits access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth. This order also mandates that trans federal prisoners be medically detransitioned and moved to facilities corresponding to their sex at birth.
• Executive Order Targeting Transgender Individuals — President Trump signed an executive order that purges transgender service members from the military, limits access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth, and mandates that transgender federal prisoners be medically detransitioned and moved to facilities corresponding to their sex at birth.

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• Revocation of Protections for Venezuelans — The Trump administration revoked protections for over 600,000 Venezuelans legally residing in the U.S., which could lead to their deportation. This action is part of a broader effort to limit immigration and reduce protections for vulnerable populations.

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• ABC News pays Trump to settle defamation lawsuit — ABC News has agreed to pay $15 million to Donald Trump to settle a defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit was over inaccurate comments made by anchor George Stephanopoulos, claiming Trump had been found civilly liable for rape. This settlement is part of a series of legal actions by Trump against media organizations, which may deter critical reporting.
• CBS News parent Paramount settles claim with Trump — Paramount, the parent company of CBS News, is in talks to settle a $10 billion claim with Donald Trump. The claim alleges deceptive editing of a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris. This settlement follows other media companies making payments to Trump, indicating a trend of media entities seeking to avoid conflict with the administration. The settlement has reportedly caused unrest within the CBS newsroom.
• Meta settles censorship claim with Trump — Meta has agreed to pay $25 million to settle a First Amendment protections claim with Donald Trump. The claim was related to "impermissible censorship" when Trump was banned from Facebook and Instagram in 2021. A significant portion of the settlement will be donated to Trump's presidential library. This settlement reflects ongoing tensions between social media platforms and political figures.

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• Trump administration investigates NPR and PBS sponsorship — Brendan Carr, the new federal communications chair under President Trump, has ordered an investigation into the sponsorship practices of NPR and PBS member stations. These media networks have been criticized by conservatives for having a liberal bias. The investigation reflects Trump's ongoing focus on media entities he perceives as adversarial. This move is part of a broader pattern of actions by the Trump administration to influence media coverage and control narratives.

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• White House signed executive order withdrawing U.S. from UNHRC and UNESCO, defunding UNRWA, and ordering comprehensive review of all international organizations — President Trump signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and cease participation in UNESCO, while immediately halting all funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. The order mandates the Secretary of State to conduct a 90-day review of UNESCO membership and a 180-day comprehensive review of all international organizations, conventions, and treaties to which the U.S. is party, with recommendations on further withdrawals. The order cites alleged infiltration of UNRWA by designated terrorist organizations and claims of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias within UNHRC and UNESCO.
• Continuation of National Emergency Regarding Burma — The President has extended the national emergency concerning Burma for one year, citing ongoing threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy due to the military coup in Burma. This continuation is pursuant to the National Emergencies Act and Executive Order 14014.
• U.S. Withdraws from Certain UN Organizations — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14199, withdrawing the United States from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and ending funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The order also mandates a review of U.S. participation in UNESCO and other international organizations to assess alignment with U.S. interests. The Secretary of State is tasked with notifying relevant UN bodies and conducting a comprehensive review of international commitments.
• Trump signed executive order ending UNRWA funding and withdrawing from UN Human Rights Council — On February 4, 2025, Trump signed an executive order stopping funding for UNRWA (UN agency for Palestinian refugees) and withdrawing the US from the UN Human Rights Council. Trump criticized the entire United Nations as "not being well run" and "not doing the job." In his first term, Trump cut UNRWA funding and withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council; the Biden administration had restored UNRWA funding and rejoined the council.
• Trump issues executive order to withdraw U.S. from certain UN organizations — President Donald Trump issued an executive order on February 4, 2025, directing the United States to withdraw from and cease funding to certain United Nations organizations, including the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The order mandates a review of U.S. participation in the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and other international organizations to assess their alignment with U.S. interests. The Secretary of State is tasked with conducting these reviews and reporting recommendations to the President.
• Freeze on Foreign Aid — President Trump imposed a freeze on foreign aid, cutting off approximately $60 billion in funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which provides humanitarian assistance globally. This freeze excludes military aid to Israel and Egypt.

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• Alberto arrested three days after ICE check-in despite humanitarian parole status — Alberto, a 42-year-old from Nicaragua who had been granted humanitarian parole, checked in with ICE using an electronic monitoring program in February. Three days later, he was arrested. This case illustrates the unpredictability and inconsistency of the new enforcement approach, where even those with approved humanitarian status face detention after routine compliance.

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• Deportation of 100+ asylum seekers to Panama without due process — A US military plane carried more than 100 immigrants from Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, China, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Pakistan from California to Panama in February. They were shackled and deported to a third country without due process because their countries of origin refuse to accept them back. The detainees, including children, were locked in a hotel in Panama City, signaling from windows for help. They were then moved to a facility in the jungle between Panama and Colombia. They were later reportedly freed and sought asylum from other countries, their futures uncertain.

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• Florida state colleges enroll in ICE 287(g) program, granting campus police immigration enforcement powers — At least 11 Florida state colleges, including Florida International University and University of Florida, have signed agreements under the ICE 287(g) program, training campus police as federal immigration agents with authority to stop, question, detain, and report students on immigration status. The partnerships were encouraged by Governor Ron DeSantis in February 2025. The program, reactivated by the Trump administration after Obama discontinued it in 2012 for racial profiling concerns, has prompted student protests and fears of visa cancellations and deportations, particularly affecting international students.

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• ICE detention and deportation of man in vegetative state resulting in death — Randall Alberto Gamboa Esquivel, a 52-year-old Costa Rican national, was arrested by ICE in Texas in February 2025 after illegally reentering the US. He was held at Webb County detention center and later transferred to Port Isabel facility. In June, his family lost contact with him; he was later found hospitalized in a vegetative state with encephalopathy and rhabdomyolysis. ICE arranged his deportation via air ambulance to Costa Rica on September 3. He died in a Costa Rican hospital on October 26. His family alleges negligence and inhumane treatment during detention and deportation.