Judge Blocks Trump EO Targeting Law Firm Jenner & Block

Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Order Targeting Jenner & Block Law Firm

A federal judge has permanently struck down President Donald Trump’s executive order that targeted the prominent law firm Jenner & Block, calling it unconstitutional.

U.S. District Judge John Bates issued the decision on Friday, marking the second time in May that a court has stopped a Trump order directed at a major law firm. According to the ruling, the order was a retaliatory move meant to punish Jenner & Block for its legal advocacy and the clients it has chosen to represent.

Trump’s executive order had suspended security clearances for the firm’s attorneys and banned its employees from entering federal buildings. The administration justified this action by pointing to the firm’s political leanings and high-profile cases—including its past employment of Andrew Weissmann, a former prosecutor on the Mueller investigation into Trump’s 2016 campaign.

Judge Bates found that the Trump administration targeted the firm not for any misconduct, but because of its legal views and affiliations. In his opinion, he warned that punishing legal professionals for their work or views violates constitutional protections and disrupts the balance of power between the branches of government.

“This was not about national security—it was about retribution,” Bates wrote, noting the clear intent to penalize the firm for representing causes or clients opposed to Trump.

This ruling follows a similar case earlier this month in which a different federal court blocked Trump’s order against Perkins Coie, another firm known for Democratic ties. Other major firms—including WilmerHale and Susman Godfrey—have also filed lawsuits in response to Trump’s executive actions.

Some firms have avoided conflict by agreeing to support Trump-aligned legal initiatives pro bono, raising concerns about potential coercion and threats to legal independence.

Critics argue that Trump’s orders amount to an abuse of presidential power, meant to intimidate the legal community and chill dissent. Supporters claim he is simply fighting back against politically motivated law firms.

Legal experts say this ruling reaffirms the judiciary’s role as a vital check on executive overreach, especially as Trump continues to test the limits of presidential authority. The White House has not yet indicated whether it will appeal, but many believe the case could eventually reach higher courts.

For now, the ruling provides temporary protection for Jenner & Block, but with other legal challenges pending, the broader battle over Trump’s use of executive power is far from over.

Observers note this case could set a lasting precedent on the constitutional boundaries between the presidency and independent legal institutions. As more rulings are expected in the coming weeks, the legal landscape around executive authority may undergo a significant shift.

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