JPMorgan Chase publicly admitted for the first time that it closed President Donald Trump’s accounts following the January 6 Capitol attack, with the bank’s CEO confirming Trump was aware of the closures. The admission was included in a court filing related to Trump’s $5 billion lawsuit, which claims the bank’s actions unlawfully disrupted his business and were politically motivated. Trump’s attorneys argue the admission supports his claim of de-banking, a practice they say caused significant financial harm.
Protect Democracy has filed a lawsuit against DHS agencies and officials on behalf of Maine residents, Elinor Hilton and Colleen Fagan, alleging unconstitutional surveillance and intimidation related to their observing immigration enforcement. The suit claims the government collected personal data and subjected observers to threats, harassment, and labeling as "domestic terrorists," violating First Amendment rights. The plaintiffs seek a court order to stop data collection and prevent further retaliation. The case highlights concerns about federal use of surveillance technology to suppress political dissent.
Rev. Al Sharpton criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson for refusing to allow Rev. Jesse Jackson to lie in honor at the U.S. Capitol, citing past precedents where notable figures such as Rosa Parks and Billy Graham were granted this distinction. Johnson's office stated the honor is typically reserved for select officials, including former presidents and military leaders. Sharpton argued that Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader, deserved the honor, viewing the decision as an insult to millions.
The Justice Department has announced the removal of a second court-appointed U.S. attorney in two weeks, sparking a constitutional dispute over who has authority to appoint and dismiss federal prosecutors. The DOJ official confirmed the firing of James Hundley, who was appointed by judges in the Eastern District of Virginia, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasizing that the President has the authority to dismiss U.S. attorneys. This ongoing conflict highlights tensions between the executive and judicial branches regarding appointments and removals in federal districts.
A federal judge has permanently blocked the release of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s final report on former President Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago, citing concerns over sensitive information and procedural issues. The ruling, issued by Judge Aileen Cannon, prohibits the Justice Department from sharing the report, which was set to be made public before the decision. The order has sparked debate over transparency, due process, and the legal boundaries of executive privilege, with advocacy groups appealing the decision and critics warning of potential implications for government accountability.
Dropkick Murphys will perform a free acoustic memorial concert in Minneapolis on March 6 to honor Alex Pretti and Renée Good, featuring local acts and livestreaming. The event, held at the Black Forest Inn parking lot, aims to support community efforts and will precede their headlining show at the Palace Theatre in St. Paul. The concert serves as a gesture of solidarity for families affected by recent tragedies involving ICE agents.
The article reports that CNN is frequently criticizing the Trump Administration's strict immigration policies, according to Karoline Leavitt. No further details are provided due to browser compatibility issues.
Stephen Miller, a longtime aide to President Donald Trump, plays a significant role in various domestic and foreign policy initiatives, including immigration enforcement, education reform targeting "woke" universities, and city beautification efforts in Washington, D.C. He is known for his influence within the White House, his broad portfolio, and his tight loyalty to Trump, maintaining his position despite criticism and personnel changes in the administration. Miller's sense of urgency and extensive involvement in policy implementation highlight his importance in advancing Trump’s agenda.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth delivered a speech at the National Religious Broadcasters' convention in Nashville, promoting Christian nationalist views and emphasizing the influence of Christianity on American history, military, and values. He criticized foreign ideologies, immigration, and progressive policies such as diversity, equity, and inclusion, framing them as incompatible with Western and Christian principles. Hegseth also praised former President Trump’s efforts to defend Christian values and discussed policies related to military transgender service bans and environmental issues.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on February 20, 2026, that the President cannot use the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs, as tariffs are considered taxes under the Constitution and such authority rests with Congress. While this decision invalidates tariffs imposed under IEEPA, tariffs under other statutes remain in effect, and the ruling does not reverse existing tariffs or revenue collected. The Court did not address whether importers are entitled to refunds of previously paid IEEPA-based tariffs, which is expected to be addressed by lower courts, potentially leading to a complex and prolonged refund process. Businesses with import exposure are advised to monitor developments, audit tariff liabilities, preserve refund rights, and update contracts to address potential tariff-related risks.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in *Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump* that the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were unlawful, with Chief Justice Roberts writing the majority opinion. The Court rejected the government's position, stating that IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs, and sent the issue of refunds back to lower courts. The decision was a 6-3 ruling, with notable opinions including a concurrence by Justice Gorsuch and dissents from Justices Thomas and Kavanaugh.
Neal Katyal, a lawyer for clients involved in the Supreme Court case against Trump's tariffs, stated that the federal government should refund the money collected illegally, with interest. The Supreme Court recently struck down Trump's use of emergency powers to impose tariffs, ruling it unconstitutional, and Katyal emphasized that tariff decisions should be made by Congress, not the president.
