1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's actions to forcibly seize control of the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) are extremely concerning and legally dubious. USIP is an independent, congressionally-created nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing violent conflicts and promoting peace globally. It does not fall under the jurisdiction of the executive branch. Sending in staff from the so-called "department of government efficiency" to occupy USIP's headquarters against the will of its leadership is an alarming overreach of executive power. This unilateral attempt to override USIP's statutory independence jeopardizes the institute's crucial work facilitating negotiations and housing sensitive data related to ongoing peace processes around the world. Allowing this illegal encroachment on USIP to stand would seriously undermine America's credibility as an honest broker in resolving international disputes. It is imperative that the administration immediately ceases its unlawful efforts to control this nonpartisan entity and restores USIP's autonomy as mandated by Congress. The persistent exploitation of presidential authority to target organizations promoting diplomacy and conflict resolution is antithetical to American values and interests. Urgent action is needed to protect USIP's vital mission from further political interference. No matter your party you are elected and paid to collaborate across the aisle - protect our democracy!