Justice Department sues former Public Broadcasting board members for refusing to leave after Trump removals

by
July 17, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Justice filed a complaint in federal court Tuesday against three former members of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), alleging they unlawfully remained in office after being removed by then-President Donald J. Trump.

According to the complaint, the individuals continued to act in their roles on the CPB board despite their official removal and without securing legal authority to retain their positions.

The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, seeks a court declaration that the former board members have not legally served since their removal, a court order barring them from further board activity, and the return of any compensation received during what the government considers an unlawful tenure.

The Justice Department stated the case reflects its effort to uphold the president’s constitutional authority under Article II to make personnel decisions concerning federal officeholders.

The federal government is seeking to block three former CPB board members from continuing to serve after their White House removals.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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