Executive Branch
Just Security’s expert authors provide analysis of the U.S. executive branch related to national security, rights, and the rule of law. Analysis and informational resources focus on the executive branch’s powers and their limits, and the actions of the president, administrative agencies, and federal officials.
4,757 Articles
Confrontation in Court: How to Hold the Trump Administration Accountable for Violating Court Orders
Judge Schiltz’s orders in Tobay Robles v. Noem expose 96 ICE court-order violations in one month and show how forcing top officials to testify can restore the rule of law.
What Just Happened: Tariffs Are Gone and Then Back Again
The SCOTUS decision on Trump's tariffs, and the president’s subsequent reaction, leave many questions about tariff rates and what comes next.
ICE Administrative Warrants and the Fourth Amendment: A Response to the DHS General Counsel
DHS says ICE agents can enter homes to arrest noncitizens using administrative warrants, without judicial oversight. DHS's position has no legal basis.
The Army Clause: A Forgotten Constitutional Check on ICE, CBP, and the Pentagon
Why the One Big Beautiful Bill violates a forgotten constitutional check on funding standing armies and how Congress can enforce it now.
New U.S.–AU Infrastructure Working Group Could Thrive With Strong Values-Based Safeguards
If the Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group is to succeed, the United States must anchor its offerings in rules-based governance.
Some Questions About Trump’s Executive Order Granting Privileges and Immunities to the Board of Peace
The Trump administration, the Board of Peace, and Congress all should have interests in clarifying the legal basis on which any privileges and immunities are being provided.
U.S. Withdrawal from International Cyber Organizations Weakens Global Cooperation Against Cyber Threats
The U.S. withdrawal from international cyber organizations will hamper intelligence sharing, coordinated response, and joint capabilities.
Establishing the Board of Peace: Key Questions About the Launch of the Trump Administration’s New Peace-Building Initiative
The Trump administration created the Board of Peace to lead Gaza’s reconstruction and global peace-building, raising questions about structure, control, and legitimacy.
Forced Labor Fuels Unfair Trade: The U.S. Interest in Ending Abuses Against Uyghurs
Forced labor in China undermines American security and values. Strong U.S. enforcement of trade laws and supply chain standards can defend human rights and competitiveness.
Five War Powers Takeaways from the Senate’s Venezuela Hearing
The Senate's hearing with Rubio offered little solace to those concerned about the use of force against Venezuela.
Minnesota ICE Enforcement: Tracking Alleged Constitutional Violations in Court
Sworn declarations in ACLU’s Minnesota lawsuit describe masked ICE agents using violent, warrantless arrests targeting Somali and Latino US citizens, legal residents.
CBP Was a Leader in Transparency. Can It Still Restore that Reputation?
CBP’s handling of the investigation into Alex Pretti's death signals a troubling shift away from the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability.