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President Donald Trump is deepening conflicts with major institutions—courts, elite universities, law firms, and the media—sparking fears of rising authoritarianism. From ignoring Supreme Court rulings to influencing academic policies and deportation laws, critics warn of a looming constitutional crisis.
Trump Defies the Courts Amid Deportation Dispute
President Trump is facing backlash for defying a unanimous Supreme Court ruling related to Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a migrant deported to El Salvador without a court hearing.
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The Supreme Court ordered that Garcia be returned to the U.S.
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The administration claims the ruling’s wording gives them flexibility.
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No public evidence has been shared linking Garcia to terrorism.
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Legal experts warn this could lead to a constitutional showdown.
“It’s defiance which puts us on the edge of a constitutional crisis,” said retired judge Shira Scheindlin.
Trump Shows Support for Bukele’s Strict Leadership
In a meeting with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele—who calls himself the “coolest dictator”—Trump appeared to admire Bukele’s tactics:
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Bukele has suspended constitutional rights and jailed thousands.
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Both leaders celebrated deporting Garcia despite court objections.
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Bukele even hinted Trump may need to imprison people “to liberate” the country.
This public show of admiration for authoritarian methods drew sharp criticism from legal scholars and human rights groups.
Ignoring Constitutional Protections for U.S. Citizens?
Trump hinted that deportation policies may expand beyond undocumented migrants to include U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes:
“We have home-grown criminals... I’d like to include them in the group,” he said.
This suggestion raises serious legal questions about due process and constitutional rights—even for those incarcerated.
Elite Education and Law Firms in the Crosshairs
Trump is also targeting elite universities and law firms:
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Universities: Threats of funding cuts unless they change policies and curricula.
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Law Firms: Pressure to avoid cases that oppose Trump’s agenda.
Harvard rejected these demands, prompting the administration to freeze federal funds. Meanwhile, Columbia University complied, curbing protests and reviewing Middle East studies programs.
Attacks on the Media and Federal Institutions
Trump continues to confront media organizations and federal watchdogs:
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Urged the FCC to revoke CBS’s broadcast license after a “60 Minutes” segment.
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Barred Associated Press reporters from covering events after a naming disagreement.
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Ordered investigations into former officials critical of his administration.
The AP has taken its case to federal court, and a judge recently ruled the administration’s retaliation unconstitutional.
Foreign Students Targeted in Visa Crackdown
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is canceling visas for foreign students involved in political protests:
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Students are being detained or deported with little notice.
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Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi was arrested during a citizenship appointment.
Critics say these actions amount to a crackdown on freedom of speech and academic freedom.
Signs of a Constitutional Collision Ahead
The Abrego Garcia case may return to the Supreme Court as the administration continues to resist compliance. Justice Department attorneys argue they can’t force El Salvador to return Garcia, while Salvadoran President Bukele denies having the authority to send him back.
Legal experts and political analysts warn this ongoing standoff—paired with escalating pressure on universities, media, and the legal community—signals a deepening constitutional crisis.
What’s Next?
With Trump showing no signs of backing down, the U.S. appears headed for a prolonged battle between the executive branch and foundational democratic institutions.
