In a striking blow to an executive order from the Trump administration, a federal judge in Washington decisively tossed out the move that targeted the law firm Jenner & Block. The order had aimed to freeze security clearances for Jenner’s lawyers, barring them from federal buildings, officials, and government contracts — a move widely seen as a politically charged crackdown on firms representing Trump’s opponents.
U.S. District Judge John Bates, appointed by George W. Bush, ruled that the order trampled on constitutional protections, echoing a similar decision earlier this month against another firm, Perkins Coie. Bates was blunt: the administration picked Jenner not for wrongdoing but because of the causes they support, their clients, and even a former employee linked to the Mueller investigation. This, he said, “chills legal representation” and shields the Executive Branch from judicial oversight, a core principle in the balance of powers.
The White House pushed back, claiming security clearances are “sensitive judgment calls” under the president’s authority, and doubled down on its criticism of Jenner — accusing the firm of pushing “un-American interests” and undermining the administration.
Jenner & Block welcomed the ruling, calling it a victory for the right to vigorous legal advocacy and the firm’s ability to defend its clients without government interference.
The Trump administration had framed Jenner’s work as partisan “lawfare,” highlighting its defense of causes such as transgender rights, immigrant protections, and its association with Andrew Weissmann, a key figure in the Mueller probe, which Trump repeatedly dismissed as a “witch hunt.”
This ruling adds to a growing legal pushback from multiple law firms challenging executive orders perceived as politically motivated. While some firms have opted to offer pro bono services aligned with the White House to avoid targeting, Jenner has stood firm — and the courts appear ready to uphold their stand.
With appeals possible, the fight over executive power and legal independence shows no sign of fading anytime soon.
