Government & Policy
DOJ leadership, attorney general actions, executive orders, legislation, and public policy directly affecting the legal system
Senate Extends Government Funding Through Dec. 11, 2026, to Avoid Shutdown
Senate passes stopgap bill extending government funding through Dec. 11, 2026, ensuring regulatory and legal system continuity before midterm elections.
Senate Confirms Todd Blanche as Attorney General in 50-49 Vote
Todd Blanche confirmed as U.S. Attorney General in a narrow 50-49 Senate vote on August 8, 2026, amid controversy over DOJ independence.
U.S. Synagogues Train Volunteers as Security Amid Rising Attacks
In response to record antisemitic assaults in 2025, U.S. synagogues are training congregants as volunteer security to enhance safety and coordinate with law enforcement.
Texas Court Invalidates Key Tax Provisions on Suppressors and Short-Barreled Firearms
A Texas federal court struck down tax rules on suppressors and short-barreled firearms under the National Firearms Act, altering compliance obligations.
Appeals Court Blocks Trump’s $400M White House Ballroom Project
A federal appeals court blocks Trump's $400 million White House ballroom plan, citing lack of congressional approval, reinforcing separation of powers.
Ex-San Diego Border Officer Gets 9 Years for Sinaloa Cartel Smuggling
A former San Diego border officer was sentenced to 9 years in prison for aiding fentanyl and cocaine smuggling tied to the Sinaloa Cartel, highlighting federal anti-corruption efforts.
Ninth Circuit Backs Washington's Climate Law Against Commerce Clause Challenge
The Ninth Circuit affirms dismissal of PacifiCorp's challenge to Washington's Climate Commitment Act, supporting state climate rules against dormant commerce clause claims.
Ninth Circuit Upholds Arizona Voter Registration Law in En Banc Ruling
En banc Ninth Circuit unanimously upholds Arizona law requiring cancellation of certain voter registrations, impacting election law in the western U.S.
Trump Administration Renewedly Moves to Remove Fed Governor Lisa Cook
In August 2026, the Trump administration restarted removal proceedings against Fed Governor Lisa Cook over residence fraud allegations, raising legal questions on Fed independence.
Kalshi Asks Court to Block Iowa Regulation, Citing Federal Preemption
Kalshi moves to stop Iowa regulation, citing exclusive Commodity Exchange Act jurisdiction, impacting fintech legal and regulatory strategies.
Senator Cassidy Backs Todd Blanche, Boosting AG Nomination Prospects
Senator Bill Cassidy supports Todd Blanche's Attorney General nomination, increasing chances for confirmation before Senate recess, amid controversy over past decisions.
29 States Adopt AI Deepfake Laws in Elections, But Protections Vary
New data shows 29 U.S. states have AI deepfake election laws, yet patchy legal protections challenge election integrity nationwide.
Senator Murkowski Joins Opposition to Blanche for Attorney General
Senator Murkowski opposes Todd Blanche's AG confirmation, complicating Justice Dept leadership amid Senate uncertainty.
Senate Confirms Erica Schwartz as CDC Director Despite Vaccine Policy Disputes
Dr. Erica Schwartz was confirmed as CDC director on Aug 5, 2026, amid debates on political influence and vaccine policies.
Senate GOP Eyes Crypto, Hemp & College Sports Bills Before August Break
Senate Republicans are advancing key crypto, hemp, and college sports bills before August recess, impacting compliance for legal teams.
Three Charged with Threatening Judge and Witnesses in Nolan Wells Case
Three individuals charged with threats against a judge and witnesses in the Nolan Wells investigation in Mississippi, highlighting judicial security risks.
Trump Signs New Orders to Block Birthright Citizenship After Court Loss
President Trump issued two executive orders to restrict birthright citizenship and clamp down on birth tourism, challenging the Supreme Court ruling.
Oregon Officers Seek Immunity in High-Profile Wrongful Conviction Case
Oregon police officers appeal to Ninth Circuit for immunity in Nicholas McGuffin's wrongful conviction civil rights lawsuit.
Iran-Linked Cyberattacks Hit Over 30 U.S. Water Systems This Summer
Iranian-affiliated hackers targeted 30+ U.S. water utilities in 2026, exposing vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure sectors.
California Judge Orders Neutral Rewrite of Voter ID Ballot Language
A California judge directed voter ID supporters on Aug 6, 2026, to revise ballot language for neutrality and clarity ahead of hearings.