Protect Americans From Ideological Profiling and Blacklists

A Clear Danger Threatens America National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 (NSPM-7) gives federal agencies sweeping authority to monitor, investigate, and punish people or organizations based partly on political or religious beliefs. It directs law enforcement to look for “indicators” such as being anti-capitalist, anti-Christian, or critical of traditional values as possible signs of “political violence.” That means Americans who protest peacefully, criticize government policy, or donate to certain causes could be flagged as extremists. This Memorandum blurs the line between crime and opinion, opening the door to surveillance, blacklists, and IRS probes of lawful advocacy. This is a frontal attack on our Constitution and the rights of Americans. NSPM-7 Threatens Free Speech The directive orders the Justice Department, Treasury, and Homeland Security to pursue “networks of political violence,” yet defines them so vaguely that almost any activist group could qualify. Civil-rights lawyers warn it will chill protest, journalism, and free participation in democracy. Financial Surveillance of Nonprofits Another section tells the IRS and Treasury to audit or refer tax-exempt groups or donors who “directly or indirectly” support political violence. That could justify monitoring churches, charities, and advocacy groups based only on speech or affiliation. Legal experts warn it invites viewpoint-based audits that intimidate civil society. Existing Law Already Covers Violence Federal law already criminalizes threats, terrorism, and conspiracy. This Memorandum is not needed to keep Americans safe. Instead, it encourages ideological profiling – treating disagreement as danger. Legal scholars warn it revives McCarthy-era tactics of probing belief rather than conduct. Congress Must Act Now to Preserve the Constitution Congress must hold hearings, demand public disclosure of agency enforcement guidelines that define who can be investigated, and pass legislation that: • Defines “political violence” precisely. Limits it to direct acts or credible threats of harm. Peaceful speech must never qualify. • Bans ideological or religious profiling. Forbids belief or viewpoint as grounds for investigation. • Protects nonprofits and donors. Bars IRS and Treasury audits based on political leanings. • Mandates full transparency. Requires public reports showing how cases are opened and what safeguards exist. • Ensures independent oversight. Strengthens inspectors general and the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB). Immediate Action Required NSPM-7 grants one of the broadest domestic investigative powers in decades. If Congress fails to act, this Memorandum will normalize viewpoint-based policing and erode freedoms that define our nation. Please speak out publicly, demand oversight, and move immediately to restore the bright line between dissent and crime.