Presidential Overreach and Abuse of Power

The International Criminal Court braced for swift sanctions from the Trump administration over its Israeli arrest warrants. ICC leadership fears the new administration will move quickly to shut down the court.

Trump signed an executive order reclassifying thousands of federal employees as political hires, effectively reinstating "Schedule F," which makes it easier to fire civil servants. A labor union lawsuit was promptly filed challenging the order as a "step backward" in worker protections.

Trump threatened to eliminate FEMA during a tour of hurricane-damaged areas in North Carolina, stating he believes the emergency management agency should be dissolved. The comments came as the administration grapples with disaster response operations.

Trump signed an executive order directing the US government to override California water policies if necessary, two days after visiting Los Angeles which had been devastated by wildfires burning over 35,000 acres.

Trump fired federal government watchdogs including inspectors at the State and Defense departments. Senator Adam Schiff criticized the firings as a 'clear violation of law.'

Trump administration fired Justice Department officials who had worked for prosecutor Jack Smith, with the acting attorney general stating that career officials could not be trusted to 'faithfully implement the president's agenda.'

Trump fired senior labor board official Gwynne Wilcox in what the official described as an 'unprecedented and illegal' move, effectively paralyzing the National Labor Relations Board. Wilcox pledged to challenge the dismissal.

The Pentagon stripped retired General Mark Milley of his security clearance and security detail as part of Trump's effort against his critics. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also seeks to review Milley's retired general rank.

Top FBI officials in five cities have been notified of demotions or transfers, and dozens of agents who worked on Trump investigations face potential termination. Trump officials have also fired January 6 prosecutors and plan a broader FBI purge as part of efforts to remove perceived political enemies from federal law enforcement.

A Trump appointee fired approximately two dozen Justice Department employees involved in January 6 Capitol riot cases and issued demands for a list of FBI officers who worked on Trump-related cases. Legal experts have warned that Trump's executive actions, including the federal funding freeze and birthright citizenship order, represent a constitutional violation.

CBS agreed to hand over transcripts of its 60 Minutes interview with Vice President Harris to the FCC, following disputes over the editing of the interview and transparency questions.

Trump personally ordered the firing of special counsel prosecutors who worked for Jack Smith, according to multiple sources, representing a significant assertion of presidential power over the Justice Department.

A dismissed official from the National Labor Relations Board filed a lawsuit against Trump and the NLRB chair, alleging her termination was a 'blatant violation' of federal law protecting certain government employees.

Trump announced he will dismiss Kennedy Center board members and install himself as chair, the latest attempt to bring Washington institutions under his control. Legal experts questioned the clarity of the president's authority to make such changes.

Trump signed an executive order tasking a new taskforce to investigate alleged 'anti-Christian bias' at federal agencies including the FBI and IRS. The move is part of broader efforts to boost Christian nationalism within the government.

President Trump announced the revocation of former President Biden's security clearance and said he is cutting off Biden's access to intelligence materials. Trump stated the action was in retaliation for Biden's earlier revocation of Trump's clearance following the January 6 Capitol riot.

Trump announced plans to appoint himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center and to fire board of trustees members. The Kennedy Center later stated Trump had not communicated with the board about these plans.

Trump announced plans to revoke security clearances for several individuals including former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to immediately restore billions of dollars in frozen federal funding, ruling that the administration had defied an earlier court order to resume disbursement. The administration faced the second ruling in as many days on the funding freeze issue.

Trump revoked the security clearance of former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, calling him a 'bad guy,' and announced plans to remove clearances for New York officials Letitia James and Alvin Bragg, who had prosecuted him.

Trump named a loyalist as interim leader of the Kennedy Center and purged 18 board members appointed by President Biden, who were removed from the center's official roster along with the former chairman David M. Rubenstein.

Trump reportedly fired Paul Martin, the USAid inspector general, one day after Martin issued a damning report on the impacts of Trump's freeze on USAID funding. Democratic state attorneys general condemned Trump's actions as approaching dictatorship.

Trump has taken control of the Kennedy Center, prompting several prominent artists including Issa Rae, Ben Folds, and Shonda Rhimes to pull out of shows and positions. The move has drawn criticism as a 'nakedly authoritarian' power grab over a major US arts institution.

Legal experts warn that the Trump administration is defying court rulings in unprecedented ways, with Vice President Vance expressing contempt for legal constraints on executive power.

President Trump posted a quote attributed to Napoleon Bonaparte stating 'he who saves his country does not violate any laws,' drawing criticism for comparing himself to the French emperor amid ongoing attacks on judges. The post sparked debate about Trump's willingness to defy judicial rulings.

The Trump administration filed its first Supreme Court appeal seeking to overturn a lower court's block on the firing of the Office of Special Counsel's head, arguing the position can be removed without cause. This represents a key test of executive power to reshape the federal government.

Top US prosecutor Denise Cheung resigns after Trump appointees pressure her to open a grand jury investigation into EPA grants for Biden-era climate spending.

Trump ordered the Justice Department to fire all U.S. attorneys appointed by President Biden, continuing efforts to reshape federal law enforcement. Emil Bove, Trump's acting deputy attorney general, appeared at a hearing regarding the dismissal of charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams.

Trump signed an executive order making independent regulators including the Securities and Exchange Commission and Federal Trade Commission answerable to the White House, significantly expanding presidential control over these agencies.

Trump proposes merging the US Postal Service, an independent agency, with the Commerce Department, as he considers taking direct control of the mail system.

The FCC, chaired by a Trump ally and Project 2025 author, ordered investigations into U.S. media groups amid warnings from observers about a 'true free-speech emergency' due to the administration's 'chilling' attacks on the media.

A federal judge issued a second order requiring the Trump administration to release frozen foreign aid, finding it had ignored an earlier court directive to do so.

The Democratic National Committee filed a lawsuit against President Trump, claiming his executive order aimed at independent agencies will gut the Federal Election Commission's independence and enforcement powers.

A federal judge ruled that President Trump cannot fire Hampton Dellinger, the head of the Office of Special Counsel, without cause. The agency protects federal whistleblowers.

A federal court ruled that Trump's firing of National Labor Relations Board official Gwynne Wilcox was illegal and ordered her reinstatement, stating the president is not above the law. The decision challenged Trump's authority to unilaterally remove the official.

A judge reinstated a National Labor Relations Board member fired by Trump, ruling against the administration's expansive view of executive power. The Trump administration immediately moved to appeal the decision.

A federal judge ordered planes carrying alleged gang members to be turned around, halting the Trump administration's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport individuals to El Salvador. However, the White House denied violating the court order, and El Salvador's president stated deportations had already occurred, with top administration officials thanking him.

Voice of America broadcasts have been replaced by music following Trump's executive order calling for dismantling the federal agency that oversees the broadcaster, part of a wider campaign against the news media.

Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare public rebuke of President Trump for calling for the impeachment of Judge James Boasberg, who issued a temporary restraining order halting deportation flights. Roberts stated that impeaching judges over their rulings is 'not appropriate.'

Trump fired two Democratic members of the Federal Trade Commission, a move likely to face legal challenge as the agency is traditionally an independent regulatory body.

The Trump administration fired only two Democratic commissioners at the Federal Trade Commission. An appeals court heard arguments over Trump's bid to fire two board members, and a judge declined to block Trump and Elon Musk's government cost-cutting team from taking over the U.S. Institute of Peace.

Trump called for the impeachment of a federal judge and again assailed a federal judge at the center of a deportation flight controversy. Senator Lisa Murkowski said fellow Republicans were afraid of Trump and Elon Musk.

Trump revoked security clearances for multiple former officials including Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Hillary Clinton, Antony Blinken, Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger, and Letitia James in a Friday memo, characterizing them as political opponents.

A federal judge ordered participants in the Signal chat group to preserve all messages related to the Yemen attack discussion, and bipartisan senators demanded the Pentagon investigate the security breach. Two Democratic commissioners fired from the FTC sued Trump over their dismissals, accusing him of executive overreach.

A federal judge blocked the Trump administration from firing Voice of America staff, preventing mass terminations at the U.S. international broadcasting agency. The ruling blocked efforts to remove employees without proper legal process.

Nearly all U.S.-based staff members at the U.S. Institute of Peace were fired as Trump seeks to end the nonprofit organization. Employees were asked to sign separation agreements as part of the mass termination effort.

Trump stated in an NBC News interview that he is 'not joking' about seeking a third presidential term and suggested there were 'methods' to achieve this, despite the 22nd Amendment constitutionally prohibiting a president from being elected to more than two terms.

Trump stated he is considering ways to serve a third term as president and said he is "not joking" about pursuing this despite constitutional limits. Constitutional scholars and Republican leaders have dismissed the claim, with bipartisan criticism noting that the 22nd Amendment bars any president from serving more than two terms.

Trump sparked debate by discussing the possibility of a third presidential term, suggesting he could potentially run again despite the 22nd Amendment limiting presidents to two terms. Republican leaders in Congress downplayed the remarks, with Senator Lindsey Graham stating to 'ask me in 27,' while some Democrats expressed alarm and others dismissed the comments.

President Trump indicated he is considering a permanent third term as president, stating 'I'm not joking' when asked about extending his time in office, contradicting his previous claims that such remarks were merely joking.

A federal court overturned Trump's firings of two independent agency board members, Cathy Harris and Gwynne Wilcox, ordering their reinstatement. The ruling is expected to be appealed to the US Supreme Court.

President Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate two former officials from his first administration who became public critics. This move is part of an escalating pattern of using official power to scrutinize perceived political opponents.

Human rights advocates filed a lawsuit challenging Trump's executive order imposing sanctions on the International Criminal Court, arguing it violates constitutional rights to share information with the court's chief prosecutor.

A federal judge found probable cause to hold Trump administration officials in contempt of court over deportations to El Salvador, warning he could appoint an independent prosecutor if the White House continued to obstruct proceedings. The case involves the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland man.

The Trump administration announced plans to reclassify approximately 50,000 federal workers with 'policymaking' duties under 'Schedule F,' making them easier to hire and fire based on political allegiance. A federal judge blocked the Musk-led efficiency team's effort to lay off 1,500 of the 1,700 employees at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Stock markets fell as Trump renewed attacks on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, calling him a 'major loser' and pressuring the Fed to lower interest rates to offset tariff impacts. The market uncertainty reflects concerns about both tariff policy and presidential pressure on the central bank.

Trump directed the Justice Department to investigate ActBlue, the main Democratic fundraising platform, citing unsubstantiated claims of foreign contributions. The order represents the latest use of federal government resources to target political opponents.

Trump denied disaster relief to Arkansas following severe storms that killed more than 40 people, continuing his stated goal to eliminate FEMA. The decision comes as the administration has repeatedly cut funding to disaster relief programs.

The FBI arrested Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan, with FBI Director Kash Patel accusing her of helping an undocumented immigrant evade authorities. The arrest escalated tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary, with Democratic officials condemning the action as threatening judicial independence.

Trump repeated threats to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status, though federal law prohibits the president from directing the IRS to investigate or audit an organization. Harvard signaled it will resist these efforts.

The Trump administration blocked federal grant funding for Harvard University, with Education Secretary Linda McMahon informing the university that research grants and other aid 'will not be provided' unless it meets government demands. Columbia University subsequently announced it would cut 180 jobs due to federal grant revocations.

Federal prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into New York Attorney General Letitia James, with a federal grand jury impaneled in Virginia following a referral from a Trump administration official. The investigation details have not been fully disclosed.

The Trump administration fired nearly 600 contractors at Voice of America, representing over a third of the media organization's staff. Some workers now face deportation as their visas are linked to their employment.

A federal judge blocked Trump officials' efforts to dismantle the U.S. Institute of Peace, ruling that the office illegally took over the congressionally created and funded think tank through 'blunt force.'

A federal judge ruled that the White House violated a court order by deporting eight people to South Sudan, where their lawyers claim they face a risk of harm and there is no clarity about their legal status.

Justice Department officials stated they will seek to 'shame' Trump's political opponents through investigations if they cannot prosecute them for crimes, marking a departure from traditional prosecutorial practices focused on investigating crimes rather than targeting political adversaries.

Trump's federal budget cuts are disrupting disaster recovery efforts in Los Angeles following recent wildfires, with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cutting staff at FEMA, the EPA, and the Army Corps of Engineers—agencies crucial for helping survivors rebuild.

Trump pardoned Paul Walczak, a Florida health care executive convicted of withholding over $10.9 million in employee taxes, after Walczak's pardon application highlighted his mother Elizabeth Fago's political fundraising for Trump. Fago had raised millions for Trump's campaigns, attended a $1 million fundraising dinner, and had connections to an effort to publicise Ashley Biden's addiction diary to damage Joe Biden's 2020 campaign. Walczak had pleaded guilty to the tax crimes just days after the 2024 election.

The White House asked the Supreme Court to block challenges to deportations to South Sudan after a federal judge found the Trump administration had violated a court order by sending people from other countries to the African nation.

U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes publicly expressed "disappointment" after Trump pardoned International Union of Operating Engineers president James Callahan on the eve of his federal sentencing. Callahan had pleaded guilty to accepting at least $315,000 in tickets to sporting events, concerts, and other amenities from an advertising firm retained by the union, and failing to properly report them. His attorneys notified the court of the pardon the day before his scheduled sentencing, prompting the judge to vacate the hearing.

The Federal Reserve issued a rare public statement asserting its independence after Chair Jerome Powell met privately with Trump, who had criticized the central bank. Powell stressed that policy decisions would be based solely on objective, nonpolitical analysis.

Trump claimed he fired National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet, though experts suggest the president does not have legal grounds to remove her from the position. The firing continues Trump's conflicts with cultural institutions.

California filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming it unlawfully deployed national guard troops by bypassing Governor Gavin Newsom's authority. The suit alleges the administration 'trampled' on state sovereignty.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, a Republican, publicly broke with Trump over the pardon of former Culpeper County Sheriff Scott Jenkins, calling it misguided. "Given what I know, I would not have pardoned him," Miyares told the Virginia Mercury, noting he had been aware of the facts having authorized the state investigation into Jenkins. Trump had portrayed Jenkins as a victim of political persecution by "an overzealous Biden Department of Justice," writing on Truth Social that Jenkins had been "dragged through HELL" and "left for dead" by "Radical Left monsters."

The Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, defying Trump's demand for rate cuts. Hours before the decision, Trump called Fed Chair Jerome Powell 'stupid' for the anticipated hold, continuing his pressure campaign on the central bank.

The Trump administration determined that Harvard University violated civil rights law and threatened loss of all federal financial resources over the treatment of Jewish and Israeli students. The university had been engaged in court battles with the administration for months.

Trump's administration threatened to prosecute CNN over its reporting on an immigration tracking app, with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stating the Department of Justice was exploring prosecution options.

Trump called for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to quit immediately, continuing his pressure on the central bank leadership regarding monetary policy decisions.

A Department of Justice whistleblower released emails supporting claims that official Emil Bove defied court orders over deportations, with messages showing officials were aware they might have to ignore judicial orders.

The Trump administration continues firing Department of Justice employees who worked for Special Counsel Jack Smith, expanding beyond prosecutors to include support staff members.

Trump told GOP lawmakers he would likely fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell soon, according to sources and officials. Trump later denied he would dismiss Powell, but reports indicate he has drafted a letter to remove him and showed it to House Republicans.

Trump administration officials are considering removing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on grounds that he mismanaged a multibillion-dollar update to the Fed's Washington headquarters, though legal experts say Trump likely lacks a case to remove him.

Maurene Comey, a federal prosecutor in the Jeffrey Epstein case at the U.S. attorney's office in the southern district of New York, was abruptly fired by the Department of Justice. No specific reason was given for her termination, with the DoJ citing Trump's constitutional powers.

The White House sought inspection of the Federal Reserve building as Trump increased pressure on Fed Chair Powell, suggesting the central bank mismanaged funds for renovations at the Federal Reserve headquarters. Investors expressed concern that attacking Powell could undermine the Fed's independence and potentially increase interest rates.

Trump administration officials have fired or demoted over 20 inspectors general since taking office, causing demoralization among federal employees who are reluctant to pursue investigations that could prompt political blowback. The actions have undermined watchdog operations across government agencies.

A federal judge ruled that Trump's executive order on the International Criminal Court likely violates the First Amendment. The ruling's scope is limited to two American activists but represents a blow to the president's efforts to penalize and isolate the world's highest criminal court.

FEMA denied disaster relief grants to three Kentucky counties devastated by storms, continuing a pattern by the Trump administration to shift the burden of disaster recovery to states.

Trump intensified attacks on the Federal Reserve's independence, calling on top Fed officials to seize control from Chair Jerome Powell if he fails to cut interest rates. The president has been critical of the Fed's monetary policy decisions.

Trump fired Erika McEntarfer, head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, after the agency released jobs data showing slower-than-expected employment growth. Former commissioners have called on Congress to act, stating the firing undermines the credibility and independence of the agency.

The Justice Department launched a grand jury probe of New York Attorney General Letitia James, issuing two subpoenas related to the civil fraud case against Trump and an investigation into the NRA. This move comes as Trump's administration has faced criticism for allegedly weaponizing law enforcement.

Trump fired the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, raising concerns from the former chief that the president may attempt to manipulate economic data. The former director warned that while data manipulation is 'not easy,' she hopes Trump 'won't go that far.'

The Trump administration threatens to strip Harvard University of lucrative patents and demands $1 billion from UCLA to restore federal funding, escalating its offensive against Ivy League institutions by calling for reviews of federally funded research.

Fed Governor Lisa Cook, the first Black woman to sit on the Fed board, refused to be bullied into resigning after a Trump ally accused her of mortgage fraud. The Trump administration threatened to refer the matter for criminal investigation.

Trump administration officials urged the Federal Reserve to remove Governor Lisa Cook, the latest figure targeted by the administration amid claims of mortgage fraud. This reflects Trump's broader effort to exert pressure on the central bank.

Trump threatened to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook if she does not resign. The president has continued pressure on Fed leadership while Chair Jerome Powell signaled possible interest rate cuts amid economic concerns including tariff impacts.

Trump has targeted political opponents with mortgage fraud claims and threats, including threats to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook. Critics characterize this pattern as 'lawfare' similar to cases against Letitia James and Adam Schiff.

Trump threatened to investigate former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie over the 'Bridgegate' scandal, after Christie criticized the president's use of the Justice Department.

Trump announced he is moving to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, claiming she committed mortgage fraud. Cook's legal team countered that Trump has no authority to remove her, and she plans to sue the administration, setting up a significant legal battle over Fed independence.

Former Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook faced potential firing by the Trump administration, prompting criticism from Treasury Secretary Yellen who called it 'unlawful.' Trump appointees are poised to control the Federal Reserve for decades, raising concerns about the institution's independence.

The Trump administration placed FEMA staff who signed an open letter criticizing the agency on administrative leave, with organizers alleging retaliation against all public signers for raising concerns about capacity to respond to disasters.

Fed Governor Lisa Cook sued President Trump over his attempt to fire her, arguing the dismissal was 'unprecedented and illegal.' The lawsuit marks an escalation in Trump's months-long campaign against Federal Reserve leadership.

California Governor Gavin Newsom warned that Trump is 'serious' about pursuing a third term and urged Americans to 'wake up' to threats posed by the president's disregard for democratic norms.

The Trump administration announced layoffs of more than 500 workers at Voice of America and other broadcasters, with the acting CEO of the parent agency making the announcement one day after a judge blocked efforts to fire the VOA director.

Trump signed an executive order rebranding the Pentagon as the 'Department of War,' attempting to formalize the name change without requiring congressional approval. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been authorized to introduce legislation to revert to the pre-1947 name.

A federal judge blocked Trump's attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, ruling that she can remain in her position while she fights the dismissal. Trump had sought to remove her citing unconfirmed mortgage fraud allegations.

Former FBI officials sued Kash Patel, the FBI director, claiming he was instructed by the White House to fire agents who had worked on investigations of Trump. The lawsuit alleges improper political retaliation.

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook filed an appeal in court against Trump administration efforts to remove her, as new documents raise questions about the mortgage fraud claims the administration has cited as justification for her termination.

A prosecutor in the Epstein case, Maurene Comey, sued the Trump Justice Department over her abrupt firing, alleging it was retaliation against her father, former FBI Director James Comey.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! was suspended indefinitely by ABC after the host made comments about Charlie Kirk's killing. The suspension came hours after Trump-appointed FCC Chair Brendan Carr threatened broadcaster affiliate stations' licenses, sparking widespread concerns about government pressure on media.

Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to allow the firing of Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, setting up a significant test of presidential power over the independent central bank. The Supreme Court also set November 5 as the date to hear arguments on Trump's use of tariffs.

Federal prosecutor Erik Siebert, who was investigating Trump critics including New York Attorney General Letitia James and former FBI Director James Comey, resigned after Trump publicly stated 'I want him out.' Siebert's investigation had found insufficient evidence to charge James with a crime.

Trump demanded that Attorney General Bondi 'move now' to prosecute his political adversaries, one day after he ousted federal prosecutor Erik Siebert for failing to charge New York AG Letitia James and former FBI Director James Comey.

President Trump urged the Department of Justice to prosecute his political opponents. Critics including Chuck Schumer and Chris Murphy warned that Trump's actions risk putting the U.S. on a path to dictatorship, while former Gov. Chris Christie cautioned that such actions threaten the justice system.

The Supreme Court deferred action on Trump's request to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, deferring any decision until oral arguments are heard on the case. Cook was able to retain her position for now despite Trump's efforts to remove her.

Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act in Portland and sent California troops to the city after a federal judge twice blocked the National Guard deployment to Oregon. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker sued the Trump administration over National Guard deployment to Chicago, characterizing it as an 'invasion,' while California Governor Gavin Newsom vowed to sue Trump for 'attacking rule of law.'

Trump said he would consider invoking the Insurrection Act after a federal judge temporarily halted National Guard deployment in Portland. The president threatened use of emergency powers in response to legal obstacles to his military deployments in cities.

Former FBI Director James Comey pleaded not guilty to charges of lying to Congress. The case marks a significant step in Trump administration efforts to pursue political opponents through the justice system.

New York Attorney General Letitia James was criminally indicted on mortgage fraud charges. James, who previously led civil fraud cases against Trump, denied the charges and called the indictment 'desperate weaponization of our justice system,' while Democratic leaders including Senate Majority Leader Schumer criticized the prosecution as evidence that the Justice Department had become a 'personal attack dog.'

Vice President JD Vance stated that Trump is 'looking at all options' regarding invoking the Insurrection Act to deploy the National Guard, citing concerns that crime is 'out of control' in major U.S. cities. Legal experts have raised concerns about the constitutionality of such actions.

Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the White House is seriously considering invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807, signaling potential use of federal military forces for domestic law enforcement purposes.

A federal prosecutor who rejected Trump administration pressure to charge New York Attorney General Letitia James was fired from the Justice Department, along with his deputy. This was part of fallout from career officials impeding the president's retribution campaign.

Trump has dismissed another inspector general, the Export-Import Bank's watchdog, bringing the total number of sidelined inspectors general to around two dozen. These officials are responsible for identifying fraud and mismanagement in federal agencies.

Steve Bannon claimed there is a plan for Trump to run for a third term, following months of the president discussing potentially defying the constitutional two-term limit.

Trump expressed that he would 'love' an unconstitutional third term but ruled out running for vice president, despite the 22nd Amendment limiting presidents to two elected terms.

Trump administration officials are being investigated by the Justice Department in what appears to be an expanding inquiry, with the probe being moved to South Florida and beginning to recruit line prosecutors. The inquiry initially appeared focused on former CIA Director John O. Brennan.

The Trump administration moved to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, arguing that the agency's funding mechanism is unlawful. The action reflects the administration's broader challenge to independent regulatory agencies.

A federal judge found evidence of 'government misconduct' in the Justice Department's case against former FBI Director James Comey, ruling the department engaged in 'profound investigative missteps' in its decision to indict him.

Federal prosecutors admitted in court that the full grand jury did not see the final indictment against former FBI Director James Comey, potentially undermining the prosecution's case. Only the grand jury foreperson formally approved the second charging document.

The Justice Department launched an investigation into whether two Trump allies influenced the handling of former congressman Adam Schiff's mortgage fraud case as prosecutors struggled to build their case.

A federal judge dismissed criminal cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that the Trump-appointed interim U.S. attorney had 'no lawful authority' to indict them. The decision is a setback for the president's efforts to use the criminal justice system against perceived political enemies.

A federal judge dismissed criminal cases against former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that the interim U.S. attorney who brought the indictments had no lawful authority to prosecute them. The judge called the Justice Department's actions 'unlawful exercises of executive power.'

The Trump administration is spending billions of dollars acquiring ownership stakes in private firms including companies in the steel, minerals, and other sectors, marking an unusual practice for executive branch spending.

The Trump administration placed fourteen FEMA workers back on administrative leave after they had initially been suspended in August for signing a petition warning that budget cuts posed risks to national disaster response capabilities.

Trump renamed the U.S. Institute of Peace after himself, with his name installed on the Washington building. The institute is scheduled to host the signing of a peace deal between Rwanda and Congo.

The Supreme Court appeared receptive to expanding presidential power to fire independent agency officials during oral arguments, with justices seemingly inclined to rule in favor of Trump's attempt to remove an FTC member, which would significantly increase executive authority over federal agencies.

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared to signal support for Trump's power to fire independent Federal Trade Commission board members, with conservative justices showing signs of backing the president in a case involving FTC commissioner Rebecca Slaughter. The decision represents a potential major expansion of executive power.

A Trump-aligned U.S. attorney expanded an investigation into intelligence officials who had angered the president, with subpoenas reportedly issued to former CIA Director John Brennan and others. Experts criticized the investigation as a "fishing expedition" by MAGA loyalist Jason Reding Quiñones.

The Kennedy Center board voted to rename the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts as the Trump-Kennedy Center, though a formal change may require congressional approval. Kennedy family members questioned the legality of the renaming.

The White House stated that the U.S. would be 'lucky' if Trump remained in office for a third term, following reports that Trump discussed the idea with constitutional scholar Alan Dershowitz.

Colorado's governor accused Trump of playing political games regarding disaster relief requests, amid tensions over the administration's handling of federal disaster assistance.

Trump stated he would 'love to fire' Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell during a Monday press conference and repeated false claims about renovation costs for the Fed headquarters.

A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must continue funding the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, blocking attempts to defund the agency that Trump vowed to shut down since returning to office.

Trump vetoed two bills on December 31, including a water project affecting Colorado and legislation involving a Florida tribe. Critics accused him of using vetoes as a retaliatory tool against Democratic-led states and jurisdictions.

The Trump administration froze all childcare payments to states, claiming to find 'rampant fraud' in the industry. The administration subsequently froze Minnesota specifically, while Trump attacked Governor Tim Walz and Representative Ilhan Omar with critical comments.

Trump administration froze federal childcare funding to all states citing fraud concerns, with Minnesota families among those affected. The move threatens to disrupt childcare programs and has raised alarm among parents and childcare providers.

The Trump administration halted more than $10 billion in federal funding for childcare and family assistance programs in California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York. Democrats condemned the freeze as 'vindictive' and 'cruel,' claiming it targeted states that opposed Trump.

FEMA staff warned that the homeland security secretary's proposed deep budget cuts could significantly weaken the agency's disaster response capabilities. Staff expressed outrage at the draft plans under the Trump administration.

Trump announced a one-year, 10% cap on credit card interest rates. Critics have raised doubts about whether the president can implement such a move without Congressional approval.

The Justice Department opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, which Powell denounced as retaliation for refusing to bow to Trump's wishes on interest rate cuts. Thirteen former Federal Reserve chairs issued a statement condemning the investigation as an 'unprecedented' assault on the Fed's independence.

A federal prosecutor in Virginia was fired after refusing to lead a case against former FBI Director James Comey, marking the latest in a series of dismissals by the Trump administration.

The Trump administration began a criminal inquiry into Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey regarding their handling of ICE immigration operations, with the Justice Department subpoenaing them. Walz said the action represents 'weaponizing the justice system' as federal agents intensified immigration enforcement in Minneapolis.

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared poised to reject Trump's attempt to immediately fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, with key justices expressing concern that such action could imperil the central bank's independence. The case addresses presidential authority over the independent agency.

A Minnesota federal judge summoned the acting ICE director and warned of contempt charges over court defiance, citing migrants who remain jailed despite court rulings. Additionally, a Texas judge blocked the deportation of a five-year-old boy and his father, saying they cannot be removed as litigation challenging their detention proceeds.

The Trump administration revoked a nursing home staffing rule after executives who donated to the president's super PAC met privately with him and urged repeal. The rule was intended to prevent neglect of patients in nursing facilities.

A whistleblower alleged that National Security Advisor Tulsi Gabbard blocked the NSA from sharing an intelligence report about a person close to Trump and instead delivered it directly to the White House chief of staff, raising questions about proper handling of sensitive intelligence intercepts.

The Trump administration deported nine migrants to Cameroon in secret, ignoring legal protections that most of them had court orders preventing their removal to their home countries.

Stephen Colbert accused the Trump administration of censorship after CBS pulled an interview segment, claiming lawyers barred him from discussing the decision to drop a Texas Democrat story amid FCC rules scrutiny.

The FCC opened an enforcement action against ABC's 'The View,' while FCC Chair Brendan Carr accused the media of being 'lied to' regarding a Stephen Colbert controversy involving alleged threats to ICC judges.

FBI Director Kash Patel fired FBI officials linked to the Trump documents case investigation at Mar-a-Lago. The dismissals followed revelations that the FBI had subpoenaed records of Patel and Susie Wiles before Trump's return to office.

Trump administration officials have been accused of failing to comply with hundreds of court orders, and legal experts are calling for courts to follow through on contempt of court sanctions. This reflects ongoing tensions between the executive branch and the judiciary.

Republican Senator Ron Johnson pushed back against FCC Chair threats to revoke broadcast licenses over coverage of the Iran war, saying he opposes government meddling in freedom of speech.

Trump backed FCC Chair Brendan Carr's threats to investigate and potentially pull broadcast licenses of news outlets over their coverage of the Iran war. Trump expressed being 'thrilled' about the reported action on social media.

The Kennedy Center board of trustees voted to close the arts institution for two years to undertake a $257 million 'revitalization project' approved by Trump. The renovation project has effectively placed the Kennedy Center under the Trump administration's control.

Trump sanctioned a UN human rights expert, Francesca Albanese, who had recommended ICC arrests and investigations over Gaza. Critics say the move demonstrates erosion of free speech under the administration.

Trump announced a 'fraud' crackdown in Democratic states with arrests beginning in California, making baseless claims about fraud in blue states and naming JD Vance as 'fraud czar' to lead the initiative.

Trump threatened to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, saying he had 'held back' on the dismissal and pointing to Powell's term ending in May. Powell indicated he would not leave until a criminal investigation was completed and could remain as a governor until 2028.

Maria Medetis Long, the lead prosecutor investigating former CIA director John Brennan, was removed from the case after expressing doubts about whether the evidence justified pursuing charges against Brennan, whose agency had assessed that Russia boosted Trump in 2016.

The FCC ordered a review of ABC's broadcast licenses following Trump administration complaints over Jimmy Kimmel's joke about Melania Trump made days before the press dinner shooting. The Trumps called for Kimmel to be fired, prompting national debate over media freedom and presidential interference.

ABC network lawyers accused Trump's FCC of punishing the network for political reasons in a legal motion challenging the FCC's investigation into The View talk show.

A Trump administration panel is seeking to weaken FEMA's disaster response capabilities amid rising climate crisis concerns. Experts warn the council's proposals will leave the Federal Emergency Management Agency ill-equipped to respond to extreme weather events.

Miami residents and a nearby nonprofit sued Trump, claiming the land gift for a Trump presidential library—which would also function as a hotel—violates the Constitution's domestic emoluments clause prohibiting the president from accepting money or gifts from states.

The Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve chair, replacing Jerome Powell, with Warsh set to serve a four-year term amid rising inflation and Trump's pressure to lower interest rates. Top Democrat Elizabeth Warren condemned the confirmation as making Warsh a 'sock puppet' for Trump.

A federal judge blocked US sanctions against UN expert Francesca Albanese on occupied Palestinian territories, ruling that Trump officials likely violated her rights by imposing measures after she criticized Israel.

The Department of Justice and Trump administration reached a settlement that dismisses a $10 billion IRS lawsuit and creates a $1.7 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' to compensate Trump's political allies. As part of the deal, the IRS is permanently barred from auditing Trump's past tax returns and pursuing a separate ~$100 million penalty involving the Trump Organization's claimed losses.

Trump threatened tariffs of 10-12.5% on 60 trading partners including the UK, Canada, EU, Taiwan, and Australia, citing forced labor concerns. The administration claims the approach allows the president to skirt court-imposed limits on tariff authority.

The FCC moved up its public comment process for ABC's license renewals, with the Guardian reporting this represents one of the most significant actions the Trump administration has taken against a media company, potentially redefining press freedom boundaries.

The Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling allowing President Trump to fire leaders of independent agencies like the Federal Trade Commission, striking down nearly a century-old precedent that insulated such agencies from direct presidential control. The decision expanded Trump's power over the federal bureaucracy while drawing criticism from legal experts as contrary to constitutional separation of powers.

The Supreme Court blocked Trump's attempt to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, ruling 5-4 that the president cannot remove Fed officials at will and that the Fed must maintain independence from direct presidential control. The decision affirmed central bank independence while Trump vowed to take 'appropriate action' against Cook.

Trump took his first flight aboard a Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 Air Force One worth approximately $200 million, prompting criticism and corruption concerns from those questioning whether the gift from the Qatari royal family represents foreign influence.

President Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review and lift the one-game suspension for Team USA forward Folarin Balogun, who had received a red card in the US's match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. FIFA's independent panel overturned the suspension, marking the first time since 1962 that FIFA has nullified a suspension for a red card received during the World Cup.

President Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun's one-match red card ban ahead of the USA-Belgium World Cup knockout match on July 7. FIFA subsequently lifted the suspension, allowing Balogun to play. Trump confirmed the call publicly, stating he 'didn't tell him what to do,' but FIFA's decision sparked international outcry from UEFA and European soccer leaders who accused FIFA of crossing ethical lines.

Trump's controversial intervention in FIFA to allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card suspension backfired as Belgium defeated the USA 4-1 in the World Cup last-16 match in Seattle. The decision sparked international backlash and multiple investigations into FIFA's conduct.

The Trump administration subpoenaed multiple New York Times journalists to testify before a federal grand jury following their reporting on security concerns with the new Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar, with the White House reportedly directing FBI Director Patel to oversee the investigation.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a joint task force between the Pentagon and Department of Justice to target and prosecute press leaks. The move represents an escalation of the Trump administration's crackdown on media and journalism, drawing concerns from press freedom advocates.

Federal judge sanctions Trump administration lawyers and nukes Trump's self-dealt IRS lawsuit seeking $10 billion from his own agency, finding the case lacked true controversy because both sides were controlled by the president.

Trump threatened to revoke the broadcast licenses of ABC and NBC after they declined to air his primetime election security address live. Fox News, CBS, and some ABC affiliates carried the speech, while NBC and CNN chose not to preempt regular programming.

Trump administration drastically cut foreign journalist visas from five years to 240 days, with Chinese journalists limited to 90 days. The administration also granted $12 million to groups founded by UK conservatives Jacob Rees-Mogg and Toby Young, criticized as misuse of public funds to influence European politics.

Health Secretary RFK Jr. froze over $1 billion in federal Medicaid funding to California and Minnesota, claiming to investigate potential fraud in these Democratic-run states using AI-based detection methods, continuing the administration's pattern of financial pressure on blue states.

The House of Representatives passed a war powers resolution for the second time calling on President Trump to seek congressional authorization for the ongoing conflict with Iran. The measure is largely symbolic as Democrats lack leverage to enforce compliance.

The Trump administration admitted in court filings that it canceled 624 green energy grants worth more than $7.5 billion to Democratic states 'based solely' on their political affiliation, withholding funds from states that did not support Trump's re-election. Twenty-five Democratic attorneys general sued the administration for politicizing federal disaster aid.

Trump issued an executive order directing the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History to install disclaimers outside the building warning visitors that exhibits do not reflect his perspective on American history. The order cited a disputed White House report alleging 'extreme political activism' in the museum.

President Trump ordered the Department of Interior to post warning signs outside the Smithsonian's National History Museum, directing visitors to a White House report accusing the institution of inaccuracy and anti-American bias in its historical presentations.

Trump's administration rejected disaster relief requests from four Democratic states that FEMA had approved, breaking bipartisan precedent. The action raised questions about whether Trump was politicizing disaster assistance.

A federal appeals court upheld a lower court's injunction blocking Trump's $400 million White House ballroom project, ruling that Congress must authorize the construction. The administration has two weeks to appeal to the Supreme Court, with the court emphasizing that such a massive project requires congressional approval.

President Trump renewed efforts to fire Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, sending her a letter stating he is 'considering' her removal despite the Supreme Court blocking his previous attempt in June. The administration cited mortgage fraud allegations in the letter.

The Department of Homeland Security spent $464 million on a no-bid contract to purchase 10 used aircraft from Daedalus Aviation Corporation — a firm whose chairman had donated to a political committee supporting former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem — claiming urgent need for deportation flights. The fleet has since sat largely idle: three luxury business jets were offered for loan to other agencies including one for FBI director Kash Patel's use, while seven Boeing 737s have been parked at a Louisiana airport for months because the agency lacked staff to operate them. Former ICE acting director John Sandweg said buying a fleet of planes would not have made his top ten list of ways to increase deportations.

Trump announced he would soon declare the Strait of Hormuz a U.S. territory, contradicting the fact that Oman and Iran share jurisdiction. Vice President Vance stated that keeping oil prices low was now the "goal number one" in the Iran war as the U.S. threatened an indefinite naval blockade.

Trump threatened to make the Strait of Hormuz a U.S. territory in an escalatory statement with no legal basis. The threat reflects ongoing tensions and lack of resolution in the Iran conflict after six months of war.

Republicans in Congress are pushing back against Trump's continued attempts to circumvent appropriations law through 'pocket rescissions,' asserting control over federal spending authority.

Trump signed a memorandum allowing vetted private U.S. companies to conduct cyber operations against foreign criminal organizations under government oversight, expanding private sector involvement in cyber warfare.

Deleted tweets revealed that Natalie Harp, a Trump White House aide, posted over 150 tweets demonstrating 'extraordinary devotion' to Trump on January 6, 2021. The revelations sparked debate about Trump's information diet and hiring practices.

The Trump administration threatened to demolish the Kennedy Center and rename Lake Ontario if court orders prevent building renovations, asserting the DOJ wants Trump's name restored to the building after a judge ordered its removal in June.