#senate-judiciary
#senate-judiciary

Privacy professionals

Senate passes 10-day FISA extension after House revolt sinks long-term deal

Privacy professionals

US Congress extends controversial surveillance power under FISA for 10 days

Privacy professionals

DOJ to appeal intelligence court ruling over use of spying power

fromWIRED

US politics

Republican Mutiny Sinks Trump's Push to Extend Warrantless Surveillance

US politics

Fisa surveillance vote sparks fierce debate as Congress splits on warrantless monitoring

House passes 10-day FISA extension after prospects of long-term deal collapse

The House passed a 10-day extension of a U.S. surveillance program amid GOP divisions, delaying a longer-term renewal effort.

Senate passes 10-day FISA extension after House revolt sinks long-term deal

The Senate approved a 10-day extension of a key surveillance power, allowing more time for negotiations on reforms to the spying program.

US Congress extends controversial surveillance power under FISA for 10 days

The US Congress has temporarily extended a controversial surveillance law allowing intelligence agencies to collect foreign data, including interactions with US citizens.

DOJ to appeal intelligence court ruling over use of spying power

The Justice Department is appealing a ruling regarding the use of surveillance tools under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.

fromWIRED

Republican Mutiny Sinks Trump's Push to Extend Warrantless Surveillance

A late-night vote to reauthorize a surveillance program failed due to bipartisan opposition, highlighting divisions within the Republican Party and concerns over privacy.

Fisa surveillance vote sparks fierce debate as Congress splits on warrantless monitoring

A controversial law allowing warrantless surveillance is set to expire, sparking intense debate over its renewal and potential reforms.

SCOTUS justices air disputes in rare public rifts

The Supreme Court faces significant internal conflict as justices critique each other's views amid crucial upcoming rulings.

The Senate Is 'Prepared' To Confirm A Supreme Court Justice - And Ted Cruz Might Be The Pick - Above the Law

Senate Republicans are prepared to confirm a Supreme Court nominee if Justice Samuel Alito retires before the midterm elections.

LGBT

fromLGBTQ Nation

7 months ago

Amy Coney Barrett discusses possibility of Supreme Court overturning marriage equality - LGBTQ Nation

Amy Coney Barrett downplayed concerns about the Supreme Court overturning Obergefell v. Hodges, emphasizing the court's role in reflecting the American people's values.

fromThe Nation

The GOP Wants Alito Out-But Not Because He's Evil

Senate Republicans are ready to confirm a Supreme Court justice before the midterms if Justice Alito retires.

fromIntelligencer

Trump Is Nudging Alito and Thomas Toward Retirement

Trump is prepared to appoint up to three Supreme Court justices if vacancies arise, aiming to reshape the court further.

The Supreme Court Has a Chance to Revolutionize Its Approach to the Law

Supreme Court rulings on Reconstruction Amendments will significantly impact voting rights and protections for marginalized groups, particularly Black Americans and transgender individuals.

SCOTUS justices air disputes in rare public rifts

The Supreme Court faces significant internal conflict as justices critique each other's views amid crucial upcoming rulings.

The Senate Is 'Prepared' To Confirm A Supreme Court Justice - And Ted Cruz Might Be The Pick - Above the Law

Senate Republicans are prepared to confirm a Supreme Court nominee if Justice Samuel Alito retires before the midterm elections.

LGBT

fromLGBTQ Nation

7 months ago

Amy Coney Barrett discusses possibility of Supreme Court overturning marriage equality - LGBTQ Nation

Amy Coney Barrett downplayed concerns about the Supreme Court overturning Obergefell v. Hodges, emphasizing the court's role in reflecting the American people's values.

fromThe Nation

The GOP Wants Alito Out-But Not Because He's Evil

Senate Republicans are ready to confirm a Supreme Court justice before the midterms if Justice Alito retires.

fromIntelligencer

Trump Is Nudging Alito and Thomas Toward Retirement

Trump is prepared to appoint up to three Supreme Court justices if vacancies arise, aiming to reshape the court further.

The Supreme Court Has a Chance to Revolutionize Its Approach to the Law

Supreme Court rulings on Reconstruction Amendments will significantly impact voting rights and protections for marginalized groups, particularly Black Americans and transgender individuals.

more#supreme-court

15 hours ago

House Judiciary Investigating Jared Kushner's Investments From Saudi Arabia

Congressman Jamie Raskin announced a sweeping probe into Jared Kushner, alleging he solicited billions from Gulf monarchies for his private business while serving as Special Envoy for Peace.

Left-wing politics

Privacy technologies

438 Experts Said Age Verification Is Dangerous. Legislators Are Moving Forward With It Anyway. - Above the Law

Age verification mandates for the internet are technically flawed, threaten privacy, and may cause more harm than good, according to 438 researchers from 32 countries.

Healthcare

10 hours ago

Tech bills of the week: Improving maternal health; Expanding access for disabled Americans; and more

The Tech to Save Moms Act aims to improve maternal health outcomes through enhanced telehealth services and technology access for expecting mothers.

Law Professors Argue Abandoning The Diversity Rule Will Hurt The ABA's Reputation - Above the Law

The American Bar Association faces pressure to eliminate its diversity accreditation requirement amid ongoing debates about racial equity in legal education.

#artificial-intelligence

Artificial intelligence

fromwww.bbc.com

7 hours ago

White House and Anthropic set aside court fight to meet amid fears over Mythos model

The White House met with Anthropic's CEO to discuss collaboration on AI technology amid ongoing legal issues with the Department of Defense.

fromFast Company

17 hours ago

At roundtable on AI, members of Congress express angst and fears of 'destruction'

Lawmakers expressed concerns about the implications of artificial intelligence on government data, military actions, and societal impacts during a congressional subcommittee roundtable.

fromSecurityWeek

22 hours ago

Lawmakers Gathered Quietly to Talk About AI. Angst and Fears of 'Destruction' Followed

Lawmakers expressed significant concerns about the implications of artificial intelligence on government operations, military actions, and societal impacts.

Artificial intelligence

fromwww.bbc.com

7 hours ago

White House and Anthropic set aside court fight to meet amid fears over Mythos model

The White House met with Anthropic's CEO to discuss collaboration on AI technology amid ongoing legal issues with the Department of Defense.

fromFast Company

17 hours ago

At roundtable on AI, members of Congress express angst and fears of 'destruction'

Lawmakers expressed concerns about the implications of artificial intelligence on government data, military actions, and societal impacts during a congressional subcommittee roundtable.

more#artificial-intelligence

fromSecurityWeek

22 hours ago

Lawmakers Gathered Quietly to Talk About AI. Angst and Fears of 'Destruction' Followed

Lawmakers expressed significant concerns about the implications of artificial intelligence on government operations, military actions, and societal impacts.

During House Panel, RFK Jr. Refuses to Acknowledge He Called for "Re-Parenting" Black Kids in 2024

Kennedy claimed that 'every Black kid is now just standard put on Adderall, SSRIs, benzos, which are known to induce violence.' He suggested the best way to treat children in those situations is to have them be 're-parented' into a community where they will have no access to technology.

NYC parents

fromNebraska Examiner

Nebraska Supreme Court sides with Pillen order on remote work, state bargaining * Nebraska Examiner

The Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that state officials can refuse to negotiate with a union over remote work limitations.

Public health

RFK Jr. faces barrage from Democrats in House hearings

Democrats linked Kennedy's vaccine criticism to rising measles cases, while he defended his stance and the CDC's vaccine recommendations.

fromwww.vox.com

Trump's DOJ wants to undo January 6 convictions

The Trump administration seeks to vacate convictions of January 6 rioters, framing them as victims of wrongful prosecution.

Conservative Judges Hiring Clerks Before 1L Exams Because Ideology Is The Only Grade That Matters - Above the Law

Two distinct federal clerkship paths at Harvard Law prioritize academic success or ideological commitment, reflecting a growing divide in hiring practices among judges.

#justice-department

US news

Justice Department moves to toss conspiracy convictions for Jan. 6 rioters

US news

Justice Department says Biden DOJ weaponized law to go after anti-abortion activists

fromABC7 Los Angeles

Justice Department moves to toss seditious conspiracy convictions of Oath Keepers and Proud Boys

The Justice Department seeks to vacate seditious conspiracy convictions of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.

US news

Justice Department moves to toss conspiracy convictions for Jan. 6 rioters

US news

Justice Department says Biden DOJ weaponized law to go after anti-abortion activists

fromABC7 Los Angeles

Justice Department moves to toss seditious conspiracy convictions of Oath Keepers and Proud Boys

The Justice Department seeks to vacate seditious conspiracy convictions of Proud Boys and Oath Keepers leaders involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.

more#justice-department

Non-profit organizations

fromLGBTQ Nation

1 year ago

Gay Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent may have helped create a constitutional crisis - LGBTQ Nation

Elon Musk's team gained unauthorized access to the federal payment system, threatening USAID operations and raising concerns about national security and economic stability.

Cryptocurrency

from24/7 Wall St.

XRP Price: The Senate Returns Today and the CLARITY Act Roundtable Is 3 Days Away - Here's What to Expect

The Senate is poised to vote on the CLARITY Act, with major obstacles resolved and support from key officials, impacting XRP's classification.

fromEsquire

Clarence Thomas Wouldn't Know What Progressivism Was If It Smacked Him on the Head

Justice Clarence Thomas criticizes progressivism for undermining natural rights and blames Woodrow Wilson for its adoption in American governance.

Clarence Thomas Just Gave a Speech Blaming Progressivism for Hitler. It Was Mostly Just Sad.

Justice Clarence Thomas delivered a speech attacking progressivism, linking it to historical atrocities and expressing grievances about criticism faced by principled individuals.

15 hours ago

House Republican Reveals Senator She Claims Has Disturbing' Allegations Against Him

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna claims Sen. Ruben Gallego faces allegations of sexual misconduct linked to ex-Rep. Eric Swalwell's recent controversies.

The Trump Administration Has Fired Over 100 Immigration Judges Without Explanation - Above the Law

The Trump administration has fired immigration judges who upheld due process in deportation cases, undermining the Fourteenth Amendment.

Judges fired after blocking deportation of pro-Palestinian students

Two immigration judges were fired after ruling against the Trump administration in deportation cases involving pro-Palestinian students.

The Trump Administration Has Fired Over 100 Immigration Judges Without Explanation - Above the Law

The Trump administration has fired immigration judges who upheld due process in deportation cases, undermining the Fourteenth Amendment.

fromwww.scientificamerican.com

Judges fired after blocking deportation of pro-Palestinian students

Two immigration judges were fired after ruling against the Trump administration in deportation cases involving pro-Palestinian students.

more#immigration

Public health

Congress grills RFK, Jr., about vaccines and cuts to health budget

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. emphasized nutrition's role in health while facing scrutiny over his vaccine stance during congressional hearings.

Morning Docket: 04.16.26 - Above the Law

Recent legal developments include disbarments, antitrust rulings, and labor agreements impacting various sectors.

fromInside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs

The Reinterpretation of Title VI (opinion)

Columbia University reached a settlement regarding allegations of antisemitism, committing to new programming and scholarships related to Israel.

#trump-administration

US appeals court blocks contempt case over Trump deportation flights

The Trump administration's deportation of Venezuelan immigrants faced legal challenges but was upheld by an appeals court ruling.

Former Biglaw Partner Warns There Are No 'Guardrails' Left Around Trump - And Someone Is Taking Advantage - Above the Law

Ty Cobb warns that without experienced advisors, Trump's decisions may be manipulated by bad actors, raising concerns about foreign influence on U.S. policy.

US appeals court blocks contempt case over Trump deportation flights

The Trump administration's deportation of Venezuelan immigrants faced legal challenges but was upheld by an appeals court ruling.

more#trump-administration

Former Biglaw Partner Warns There Are No 'Guardrails' Left Around Trump - And Someone Is Taking Advantage - Above the Law

Ty Cobb warns that without experienced advisors, Trump's decisions may be manipulated by bad actors, raising concerns about foreign influence on U.S. policy.

#fisa

US politics

House extends surveillance powers for 10 days

fromTechCrunch

Privacy professionals

With US spy laws set to expire, lawmakers are split over protecting Americans from warrantless surveillance | TechCrunch

21 hours ago

US politics

House approves short-term extension of surveillance law in blow to Republicans' long-term plan US politics live

Privacy professionals

House readies vote to renew FISA 702 without a warrant amendment

US politics

Trump Demands GOP Pass FISA Bill Even Though He Was a Victim' of Worst and Most Illegal Abuse'

US politics

Why Congress is fighting over a central tool of American surveillance

House extends surveillance powers for 10 days

The House voted to extend a controversial surveillance program, FISA 702, until April 30 amid ongoing debates about privacy and national security.

fromTechCrunch

With US spy laws set to expire, lawmakers are split over protecting Americans from warrantless surveillance | TechCrunch

Section 702 of FISA, allowing warrantless surveillance, is set to expire, with lawmakers divided on extending it without changes to protect privacy rights.

21 hours ago

House approves short-term extension of surveillance law in blow to Republicans' long-term plan US politics live

The House voted to extend Section 702 of FISA, allowing warrantless surveillance until April 30, despite bipartisan opposition to longer renewals.

House readies vote to renew FISA 702 without a warrant amendment

The House is set to reauthorize Section 702 of the FISA without a warrant requirement, despite concerns over privacy and Fourth Amendment rights.

Trump Demands GOP Pass FISA Bill Even Though He Was a Victim' of Worst and Most Illegal Abuse'

Trump urges GOP unity to pass a clean extension of FISA 702 despite claiming past abuses against him.

Why Congress is fighting over a central tool of American surveillance

Section 702 of FISA is crucial for U.S. intelligence but raises concerns about privacy violations of American citizens.

more#fisa

fromTechCrunch

Man who hacked US Supreme Court filing system sentenced to probation | TechCrunch

Nicholas Moore was sentenced to a year of probation for hacking the U.S. Supreme Court and other government systems.

40 Out of 47 Democratic Senators Just Voted to Block Arms Sales to Israel

A record number of Senators supported resolutions to block military sales to Israel, reflecting a shift in accountability for U.S. foreign policy.

#trump

US Elections

Trump Just Automated Draft Entry. It's Time for the Supreme Court to Step In.

Left-wing politics

Trump's Corrupt Pardon Campaign Has Somehow Hit a New Low

Left-wing politics

The supreme court needs to put limits on Trump's use of the pardoning power | Steven Greenhouse

US Elections

Trump Attends Supreme Court Arguments After Slamming Justices Who Are "Disloyal"

Trump Just Automated Draft Entry. It's Time for the Supreme Court to Step In.

Trump's military actions raise serious concerns about the potential for a draft and the constitutional implications surrounding it.

Trump's Corrupt Pardon Campaign Has Somehow Hit a New Low

Trump has issued approximately 1,600 pardons during his second term, significantly more than in his first term, with no signs of slowing down.

The supreme court needs to put limits on Trump's use of the pardoning power | Steven Greenhouse

Trump's pardons undermine democracy and ethics, deviating from Hamilton's vision of cautious presidential pardoning.

Trump Attends Supreme Court Arguments After Slamming Justices Who Are "Disloyal"

Trump's attendance at the Supreme Court raised concerns of intimidation regarding his executive order on birthright citizenship.

more#trump

Australian federal court warns lawyers over unacceptable' use of AI

The federal court of Australia warns against using generative AI in legal proceedings due to risks of inaccuracies and potential legal consequences.

Trump Admin Lawyer Applies To Be Law School Dean, Suggests It Might Help Investigations Go Away - Above the Law

Joshua Kleinfeld's application for dean at George Mason University raises ethical concerns amid ongoing investigations into the university's DEI policies.

US news

Virginia joins a national effort to ensure only popular vote winners become president

Virginia joins the National Popular Vote Compact, increasing the total to 18 states and 222 electoral votes, aiming for a nationwide popular vote system.

#white-house

6 days ago

US appeals court extends deadline to halt White House ballroom construction

The appeals court allows White House ballroom construction to continue while questioning Trump's national security arguments.

Morning Docket: 04.13.26 - Above the Law

White House ballroom construction has resumed, while various legal and corporate developments unfold across the country.

6 days ago

US appeals court extends deadline to halt White House ballroom construction

The appeals court allows White House ballroom construction to continue while questioning Trump's national security arguments.

Morning Docket: 04.13.26 - Above the Law

White House ballroom construction has resumed, while various legal and corporate developments unfold across the country.

more#white-house

Senate vote on arms sale shows massive cracks' in US support for Israel

40 out of 47 Democratic senators voted to block military bulldozers to Israel, signaling a shift in opposition to unconditional aid.

GOP Senator Argues His Party Deserves to Lose the Majority: We've Gotten One Bill Passed'

Sen. Tommy Tuberville criticized Republicans for failing to maintain their majority in Congress and highlighted issues affecting rural communities.

Attorney Who Masterminded Trump's Attempt to Overturn Election Disbarred

John Eastman, the attorney who masterminded the legal strategy behind President Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election, has been officially disbarred in California. This disbarment follows the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol and the subsequent legal repercussions faced by Eastman and other attorneys involved in representing Trump.

Law

fromemptywheel

Democrats Need to Solve the Tactical Problems with Impeachment before Relying on It - emptywheel

Peter Magyar demands resignations and anti-corruption measures following his victory, aiming to unlock EU funds while warning of document shredding by Viktor Orbán's team.

Biglaw Firm's PAC Donated To Swalwell... After Rape Allegations Dropped - Above the Law

Eric Swalwell resigned from Congress and his gubernatorial campaign following serious allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women.

Department of Justice investigating Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations

The US Department of Justice is investigating Eric Swalwell following his resignation amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations.

Biglaw Firm's PAC Donated To Swalwell... After Rape Allegations Dropped - Above the Law

Eric Swalwell resigned from Congress and his gubernatorial campaign following serious allegations of sexual misconduct from multiple women.

Department of Justice investigating Eric Swalwell amid sexual assault allegations

The US Department of Justice is investigating Eric Swalwell following his resignation amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations.

Morning Docket: 04.15.26 - Above the Law

Kirkland earns significant revenue and hires a top lawyer from Wachtell for $80 million over three years.

11 hours ago

Lead prosecutor on investigation into former CIA director no longer on case

A federal prosecutor has stepped down from the investigation into John Brennan due to reservations about the case's direction and implications.

1 week ago

Federal judge halts White House effort to collect university data on applicants' race

A federal judge halted data collection efforts by the Trump administration regarding race in college admissions, citing rushed implementation and potential privacy risks.

fromwww.amny.com

New York State Bar Association names new executive director | amNewYork

Kathy Suchocki has been appointed as the executive director of the New York State Bar Association after serving in an interim role since 2025.

US news

fromThe Washington Post

Judges are increasingly using AI to draft rulings and prepare for hearings

Federal judges increasingly use AI tools for case preparation, improving efficiency and decision-making.

For Better or for Worse, the House Is Changing the Way It Deals With Its Worst Members

Luna and Leger Fernández worked in tandem to push Reps. Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell into involuntary retirement, using social media to update the public on their progress.

SF politics

fromEsquire

Once Again, Congress Has Failed to Use Its Constitutional Powers to End the President's Ridiculous War

The Senate failed to stop the president's war, highlighting Congress's ongoing inability to exercise its constitutional powers.

In America, Even Judges Have To Take Matters In To Their Own Hands - Above the Law

Judges are increasingly carrying guns for self-protection due to rising threats and inadequate security measures.

14 hours ago

CNN Panel Weighs in On TMZ's New Washington Bureau: No Group of 435 people' Deserve The TMZ Treatment' More

TMZ, who embarked on a new beat this week: the intersection of pop culture and politics. Mattingly rolled tape on a TMZ reporter asking Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary, what did you do with the raccoon's dead penis? Where is it now?

US politics

Hospital visit fuels speculation about Samuel Alito's future on supreme court

Justice Samuel Alito was hospitalized for dehydration, raising speculation about his potential retirement and Donald Trump's opportunity to appoint a new justice.

Congress reaches the breaking point on its ethics crisis

Lawmakers are frustrated with the slow pace of the Ethics panel and are considering forcing expulsion votes.

Legal Ethics Roundup: Billing 34.5 Hours In A Day, New ABA Recusal Opinion, Shortcomings In SCOTUS Ethics Rules, Pro Se AI Sanctions, Extra Time For Bar Exam, Purging Immigration Judges & More - Above the Law

Lawyers must disclose information that could lead to a judge's disqualification, balancing this with client confidentiality obligations.

Top five takeaways from Homeland Security budget hearings

DHS officials testified about funding needs amid a record-breaking shutdown affecting operations and employee pay.

fromwww.housingwire.com

House lawmakers weigh FCRA changes, CFPB complaint limits

Advancing smaller, bipartisan financial services bills is essential for effective legislation, while maintaining accuracy in credit reporting is crucial for economic mobility.

Senate Democrats move to stall Trump's absurd' bid to install new Fed chair

Democrats are opposing Trump's nomination of Kevin Warsh for Fed chair amid ongoing criminal investigations into current Fed members.

fromIntelligencer

House Bucks Trump, Votes to Shield Haitians From Deportation

The Trump administration targets legal immigrants, particularly Haitians under TPS, for deportation despite their refugee status and ongoing crises in their home country.

fromThe Verge

The Senate is voting to save free IRS Direct File today

The Senate is set to vote on the IRS Direct File Act to reinstate free tax filing services for Americans.

Raskin Proposes New Health Panel for POTUS Fitness Under 25th Amendment

New legislation aims to simplify the process of removing a president due to health issues under the 25th Amendment.

Under pressure from President Trump, can the filibuster survive 2026?

Pressure mounts on Senate Majority Leader John Thune to eliminate the filibuster for passing Trump's voting regulation agenda.

3 weeks ago

The Judiciary Is Still Unaccountable, And This Congress Won't Fix It - Above the Law

The Judiciary Accountability Act aims to extend anti-discrimination protections to judiciary employees, promoting transparency and accountability in the judicial system.

Scoop: Collins plans to grill six Cabinet officials on Trump's budget

Bipartisan appropriations talks are being encouraged as an alternative to reconciliation for funding government agencies.

1 week ago

One Justice Just Took Surprise Aim at Brett Kavanaugh. There May Be a Bigger Strategy at Play.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor criticizes Justice Kavanaugh's support for race-based detentions, highlighting his lack of understanding of the impact on affected individuals.

1 week ago

Trump Crashes Out At Supreme Court - See Generally - Above the Law

Donald Trump's legal challenges and actions have sparked controversy and criticism, particularly regarding birthright citizenship and his administration's decisions.

1 month ago

SCOTUS Justices Air Internal Debate Over Shadow Docket At Public Event - Above the Law

Justices Jackson and Kavanaugh disagree on the Supreme Court's emergency docket, with Jackson criticizing its use to implement policies before legal challenges are resolved, while Kavanaugh defends it as a necessary structural feature of modern governance.

1 month ago

Federal Judges Threatened For Doing Their Jobs Speak Up - Above the Law

Federal judges face escalating violent threats and harassment for making constitutional rulings, including swatting attacks and assassination attempts, undermining judicial independence.

2 months ago

Epstein sympathized with Kavanaugh during supreme court confirmation, emails show

Jeffrey Epstein monitored Brett Kavanaugh's 2018 confirmation, sympathized with Kavanaugh, and urged Republicans to aggressively undermine Christine Blasey Ford's sexual-assault allegation.