Legal Challenges Surround US Deportation Flights

A judge has indicated that the US government's deportation flights to El Salvador may have violated a court order, raising the possibility of charges against officials for contempt of court. Judge James Boasberg stated that there is sufficient basis for a criminal investigation following the deportation of approximately 200 migrants, primarily from Venezuela, in March, despite a prior court directive to halt these flights. The government now has the opportunity to respond, with the court prepared to escalate the matter to prosecutors if no explanation is provided.

California's Legal Action Against Tariffs

The state of California has initiated a lawsuit challenging the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. The legal action, supported by Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta, asserts that Trump's actions exceeded constitutional authority, as the power to levy tariffs resides solely with Congress. Bonta emphasized that the president cannot unilaterally disrupt the nation's economic framework without legislative approval, highlighting the principles of democratic governance.

Closure of US State Department Office Addressing Foreign Disinformation

The US State Department has disbanded its Global Engagement Center, which was tasked with combating disinformation from countries like Russia, China, and Iran. Established in 2016 under President Obama, the center published reports on foreign disinformation campaigns. Critics, particularly Republicans, have long claimed that the center deviated from its intended purpose and mismanaged taxpayer funds. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the closure, arguing that the office was ineffective in serving its mission and contributed to the suppression of American voices.

Harvard University Faces Tax Status Review

Reports indicate that the federal government has requested the relevant agency to revoke Harvard University's tax-exempt status. This follows the institution's refusal to comply with a shift in policy demanded by President Trump, which has led to the suspension of billions in federal funding. The administration has suggested that Harvard could lose its tax benefits and be taxed as a political entity, amid ongoing criticisms from Trump regarding the university's alleged leftist ideology.

Investigation Launched Against New York Attorney General

New York Attorney General Letitia James, known for her civil case against Donald Trump, is reportedly under investigation for allegations of fraud. According to US media, the Federal Housing Finance Agency has asked the Justice Department to investigate claims that James falsified documents to secure better loan terms for real estate. This inquiry comes after Trump was found liable in a civil case for inflating the value of his assets to receive favorable banking conditions, a process that James has actively challenged.