Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Ban on Law Firm Linked to Steele Dossier

A federal judge has blocked President Donald Trump’s executive order that banned the law firm Perkins Coie from entering government buildings and working with federal agencies. The firm was involved in funding the Steele dossier, which contained unverified allegations against Trump during the 2016 election.

US District Judge Beryl Howell ruled that Trump’s order showed “retaliatory animus” and violated constitutional protections. The judge issued a temporary restraining order, allowing Perkins Coie to continue its work with federal clients.

Trump signed the executive order last week, accusing Perkins Coie of being “dishonest and dangerous” and revoking the firm’s security clearance. The firm responded with a lawsuit, claiming the order was a political attack that would destroy 25% of its revenue.

“The order imposes these punishments as retaliation for the firm’s association with, and representation of, clients that the President perceives as his political opponents,” Perkins Coie’s attorneys said in the lawsuit.

The Steele dossier, compiled by ex-British spy Christopher Steele, accused Trump of colluding with Russia. However, later investigations, including the Mueller report, discredited many claims in the dossier.

The Trump administration argued that the President has the authority to block firms deemed untrustworthy with national security information. The case will now proceed in court as the temporary restraining order remains in effect.

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