Condemn authoritarian attack on rule of law, legal profession

This executive order targeting a major law firm for simply representing an opponent of the president is a disturbing move straight out of the authoritarian playbook. It represents an egregious attack on the legal profession and the ability of lawyers to fulfill their ethical duty of providing zealous representation to clients, without fear of retaliation from the government. Undermining the independence of the legal system in this manner corrodes the rule of law that is foundational to American democracy. Lawyers must be able to take on controversial cases and represent unpopular clients without worrying that the government will punish them or their firms through termination of contracts, security clearance revocations, or other retaliatory actions. This order sends a chilling message that could dissuade principled attorneys from representing clients who run afoul of the president's interests. Such intimidation of the legal profession is a hallmark tactic of authoritarians seeking to eliminate checks on their power. Preserving an independent bar able to stand up to overreach from any branch is vital for safeguarding rights and liberties. This assault on a preeminent law firm should be a wake-up call about the dangers of acceding to further erosions of democratic norms and institutions.