Congress
Just Security’s expert authors offer analysis of U.S. Congress’ role in national security, foreign affairs, the rule of law, and rights. Coverage includes analysis and informational resources related to the legislative process, oversight and investigations of the executive branch, and major debates on the separation of powers and Congress’ constitutional role.
Highlights:
Secretary of State Rubio’s Reorganization Plan Could Offer a Chance to Rescue U.S. Foreign Assistance — If He’s Smart About It
After months demolishing foreign aid, the Trump administration could still regroup for something worthy of America’s values and interests.
The New “National Defense Area” at the Southern Border: What You Need to Know
NSPM-4 creates a military area that is twice the size of Washington, D.C. and expands the military’s role in stopping cross-border migration.
No, the President Cannot Enforce the Law-Firm Deals
"First, are these agreements legally enforceable? Second, if not, what principled reasons do the firms have for keeping their part of these bargains?"
Deportation to CECOT: The Constitutional Prohibition on Punishment Without Charge or Trial
Sending migrants to El Salvador’s CECOT prison raises grave constitutional concerns under the Fifth and Sixth Amendments.
What Just Happened: The Trump Administration’s Reorganization of the State Department – and How We Got Here
The Trump administration’s proposed reorganization of the State Department is not just a reshuffle. It’s a realignment of diplomatic priorities that seems set to constrain…
The Just Security Podcast: Trump’s AI Strategy Takes Shape
Is a distinct Trump strategy for AI beginning to emerge—and what will that mean for the United States and the rest of the world?
2,391 Articles
The Supreme Court’s Next 100 Days: Understanding the Passive-Aggressive Virtues (and Vices)
The Supreme Court's pushback during the first 100 days of the Trump administration is striking. What to look for in the next 100.
Beyond Data Rescue: Building Structural Safeguards for Federal Data Preservation
Disappearance of vital resources from government websites exposes a fragile ecosystem in which accountability mechanisms have broken down.
Collection: Just Security’s Coverage of Trump Administration Executive Actions
Coverage of key developments, including in concise “What Just Happened” expert explainers, legal and policy analysis, and more. Check back frequently for updates.
Justice Department Fails to Address Central Point in VOA Case
A federal judge halted the shutdown of VOA, citing violations of administrative law and congressional authority, not press freedom.
The New Transparency Rules and the El Salvador Detention Agreement
A 2022 statute could force disclosure of any U.S.-El Salvador agreements connected to the facility where Kilmar Abrego Garcia is detained
DOGE’s Growing Reach into Personal Data: What it Means for Human Rights
Congress should update the Privacy Act to prevent DOGE from violating U.S. international rights obligations.
Introduction to Series: Data Preservation Under the Trump Administration
A new series on what is at stake — and what can be done — to ensure government information remains publicly accessible and properly stored.
Unpacking the Voice of America Litigation
Recent rulings by federal judges provide templates for opposing the destruction of congressionally-created agencies like the Voice of America.
Leveraging International Standards to Protect U.S. Consumers Online, No Congress Required
States can leverage international standards and the EU's centering of human rights to protect consumers online.
No, the President Cannot Issue Bills of Attainder
Trump orders functioning as bills of attainder are prohibited by the Constitution and repugnant to its separation of powers.
Visa Revocations Disregard South Sudan War Risks, Overlook U.S. Communities’ Embrace of Refugees
The breadth and depth of support for South Sudanese across red and blue states has origins in evangelical backing for the young country.
America’s Absence in Myanmar’s Early Earthquake Response: A Moral and Strategic Failure
US foreign aid gutting hampers humanitarian response to Myanmar's earthquake toll, leaving gaps filled by China for its strategic gain.