By the authority given to me by the Constitution as President of the United States, I issue the following order:
Background
For years, major law firms have greatly influenced our legal system, sometimes in negative ways. Many have engaged in actions that jeopardize community safety, create challenges for local businesses, undermine our constitutional rights, and impact the integrity of elections. Occasionally, they’ve acted on behalf of clients for free or claimed to work for the public good. This can take away the access to justice that everyone deserves, especially those who cannot afford top-tier legal representation. Therefore, my administration will stop funding activities that cause harm.
We have already taken steps to respond to risky practices associated with certain law firms. It is now time to address concerns regarding Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP (Paul Weiss). In 2021, a partner there brought a pro bono lawsuit concerning events related to the Capitol on January 6, 2021, for the D.C. Attorney General. The following year, Paul Weiss hired Mark Pomerantz, a lawyer who previously attempted to build a case against me while at the Manhattan District Attorney’s office. Despite not convincing the DA of its validity, Pomerantz initiated a media campaign to promote this prosecution.
Moreover, Paul Weiss has been accused of discrimination against its employees based on race and other protected categories. They, like many large law firms, often decide on hiring and promotional targets based on race and gender. My administration is determined to prevent such discrimination masked as “diversity, equity, and inclusion.” We will ensure that federal support aligns with laws that promote fairness and national security. Those who engage in discrimination and harmful practices shouldn’t have access to sensitive government information or federal funds.
Security Clearance Review
The Attorney General and relevant agency heads must immediately review security clearances held by individuals at Paul Weiss and Mark Pomerantz. Any clearances inconsistent with national interest should be suspended.
Contracting
To ensure taxpayer money does not support contractors involved in activities against American interests, agencies will now require contractors to disclose any business connections they have with Paul Weiss. Agencies must evaluate all their contracts with Paul Weiss and take necessary steps to terminate any that do not serve the interests of American citizens. They will report their findings to the Office of Management and Budget within 30 days.
Racial Discrimination
This order reinforces our commitment to address discrimination, continuing from previous executive actions taken against Perkins Coie LLP.
Personnel
Agency heads must limit access to federal buildings for employees of Paul Weiss if such access threatens national security. They must also provide guidance to prevent government employees from engaging with Paul Weiss staff in ways that contradict national interests.
Overall, this order aims to protect our national interests and uphold fairness in all governmental actions.
General Provisions
This order is intended to operate under existing laws and appropriations. It does not create enforceable rights for any person against the U.S. or its agencies.
Conclusion
My administration takes these actions seriously to ensure that justice is upheld, discrimination is addressed, and national security remains a priority. We are working diligently to realign our legal and governmental systems with the values we hold dear as a nation.
Check out this related article: Exciting Final Practice: Piastri Outpaces Russell and Verstappen!
Source link