A federal judge in Washington, D.C., has temporarily blocked most provisions of President Donald Trump's executive order targeting the law firm Susman Godfrey. The order, issued after Susman Godfrey successfully sued Fox News over election fraud claims on behalf of Dominion Voting Systems, sought to bar the federal government from doing business with entities that hire the firm, revoke security clearances, and restrict access to federal buildings.
Judge Loren AliKhan described the executive order as a 'personal vendetta' and a 'shocking abuse of power,' ruling that it likely violates the First and Fifth Amendments. The judge noted that the order threatened the firm's existence by risking the loss of clients and federal contracts.
Trump's executive orders have targeted multiple prominent law firms, including Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, and WilmerHale, often in response to their representation of clients or causes seen as opposing the administration. Some firms have challenged these orders in court and received temporary restraining orders, while others have reached deals with the administration, agreeing to provide nearly $1 billion in pro bono legal services for causes supported by the White House. Notable deals include Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison's $40 million commitment, Milbank's $100 million, and four firms agreeing to $125 million each. Nine firms in total have entered agreements.
Some law firms, such as Kirkland & Ellis—with $8.8 billion in gross revenue—were among those making deals. Several firms received letters from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission regarding their diversity practices, which were withdrawn after settlements. Attorney resignations have occurred at firms like Skadden in protest of the deals.
The legal industry remains divided, with critics warning that these actions undermine the independence of the legal profession. The administration has also expanded its focus to universities and civil society groups, threatening punitive actions such as revoking federal funding or tax-exempt status. White House spokesman Harrison Fields has defended the administration's actions, while Attorney General Pam Bondi has been involved in implementing the executive orders.
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The Trump administration took a series of measures against critics. Which institutions and groups are targeted by the U.S. President?
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