WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump and The White House issued a sweeping executive order Wednesday directing federal agencies to suspend security clearances, sever contracts, and limit government engagement with the law firm Susman Godfrey LLP, citing alleged conduct that includes racial discrimination, national security risks, and undermining public institutions.
Key Points
- President directs agencies to suspend security clearances for individuals at Susman Godfrey.
- The order cites alleged racial discrimination and activities deemed contrary to U.S. interests.
- Federal contracts involving Susman are to be reviewed, and access to government property restricted.
Security and contracting restrictions imposed
The order, issued under presidential authority, instructs the Attorney General, Director of National Intelligence, and agency heads to immediately suspend any active security clearances held by Susman Godfrey employees. It also directs the Office of Management and Budget to identify any federal resources being used by or on behalf of the firm and to halt their provision.
Federal contracting agencies must now require disclosure from government contractors about any business ties to Susman Godfrey and whether such ties are related to federal contracts. Agencies are instructed to terminate contracts where Susman is involved, when permitted under existing law.
Allegations of racial discrimination and political interference
The executive order accuses the firm of funding and engaging in conduct contrary to critical American interests. It specifically highlights allegations that Susman runs programs offering financial benefits and jobs solely to “students of color,” calling such actions unlawful discrimination.
It further claims the firm has played a role in politicizing the military, undermining election integrity, and supporting initiatives that conflict with national priorities. The order connects its provisions to broader directives under Executive Order 14147, “Ending the Weaponization of the Federal Government,” and Executive Order 14230, which similarly targeted the law firm Perkins Coie.
Personnel and facility access limitations
Under Section 5, agencies are instructed to limit access to federal buildings by Susman employees where national security could be at risk, and to avoid hiring former Susman personnel unless a formal waiver is granted. Government staff are also to avoid engaging with the firm’s employees in an official capacity unless consistent with national interests.
The order allows for implementation subject to applicable law and funding availability, and includes standard language clarifying that it creates no enforceable legal rights.
A high-profile law firm faces sweeping federal restrictions as the administration intensifies scrutiny of perceived threats to national security and government integrity.
