Last year, President Trump launched an offensive against several prominent law firms. While most firms yielded to avoid potential White House repercussions, four—Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, Perkins Coie, and Susman Godfrey—challenged Trump’s orders in court, and prevailed.
Recent developments saw the Justice Department initially announce it would no longer defend the president’s executive orders against these four firms. However, within 24 hours, federal prosecutors reversed course and stated they would proceed with an appeal.
According to reporting from The Wall Street Journal, this reversal followed an “angry outburst” by President Trump. The Journal reported that Trump directed advisors to halt the Justice Department’s initial decision to drop the appeal.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the Justice Department’s change in direction was “at the president’s direction.” The president reportedly told White House officials he had not approved the initial decision to abandon the defense of the orders.
This move allows the administration to continue a legal battle that has already been ruled against them by judges across the ideological spectrum, who found the executive orders to be illegal.
The executive orders originally accused the four firms of weaponizing the legal system and engaging in discrimination, citing connections to lawyers and causes the president views as unfavorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What firms initially fought back against the president’s orders?
Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, Perkins Coie, and Susman Godfrey challenged the president’s orders in court and were successful in their challenges.
What prompted the Justice Department to reverse its decision?
The Justice Department reversed its decision after President Trump expressed his anger and directed his advisors to change course, according to reports.
What was the initial decision of the Justice Department?
The Justice Department initially announced plans to abandon its defense of the president’s executive orders against the four law firms.
As the administration pursues this appeal, it remains to be seen whether the continued legal fight will yield a different outcome, or simply prolong a losing battle.
