Maryland Attorney General Condemns Trump Administration’s Actions Against Charitable Organizations

Attorneys General Condemn Presidential Directive Targeting Nonprofits

Published: October 12, 2025

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has joined a bipartisan coalition of nine other state Attorneys General in publicly denouncing a recent Presidential directive. The directive instructs the Department of Justice to investigate nonprofit organizations and charities that support causes opposing the current governance’s policies. This action has sparked concerns about potential infringements on First Amendment freedoms and the weaponization of government power.

Concerns Over First Amendment Rights

The coalition’s statement asserts that targeting nonprofits based on thier missions or beliefs represents a direct violation of constitutional rights to free speech and association. Critics argue the directive sets a hazardous precedent, potentially chilling legitimate advocacy and charitable work. The concern centers around the idea that the government shoudl not be able to punish organizations for expressing views that differ from those in power.

Details of the Presidential directive

The September 25th Presidential memorandum tasks the Department of Justice with investigating individuals and organizations purportedly involved in “political violence.” Though, the directive extends beyond genuine threats of violence to include those who fund or support policies the administration opposes.Specifically, the directive threatens investigation into “institutional and individual funders, and officers and employees of organizations” that challenge the administration’s viewpoints. The Open Society Foundation, a prominent philanthropic organization supporting democracy and human rights initiatives, was specifically mentioned as a potential target for prosecution.

Accusations of Political Motivation

Opponents of the directive argue it is a pretext for suppressing dissent and stifling legitimate political activity. They contend the administration’s claims that these organizations are undermining the rule of law are unsubstantiated and merely a justification for silencing critics. The directive is viewed as an attempt to quell the freedom of speech and association guaranteed by the First Amendment.

Coalition Response and Legal Challenges

attorney General Brown and his colleagues emphasized the vital role nonprofits play in American society, stating they are integral to the fabric of communities nationwide. They warned that any attempt to target these organizations based on their beliefs is a “gross violation” of essential constitutional rights. the coalition has vowed to fight against any efforts to weaponize the government to suppress legitimate activities and freedoms. The group includes Attorneys General from California,Colorado,Connecticut,Delaware,Maine,Michigan,Minnesota,New Jersey,and Washington.

Broader Pattern of Targeting

This directive is reportedly part of a wider pattern of actions targeting organizations that oppose the administration’s ideology. Examples cited include executive orders threatening organizations promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the removal of public-service organizations serving immigrant and refugee populations from student loan forgiveness programs. According to a report by the Urban Institute in July 2024, funding for social service nonprofits has decreased by 15% since the begining of the administration’s term.

Action	Date	Target
Directive to Investigate Nonprofits	September 25, 2025	Nonprofits Supporting Opposing Causes
Threats to DEI Organizations	January 2025	Organizations Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Funding Cuts to refugee Services	March 2025	Organizations Serving Immigrants and Refugees

Did You Know? The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees the freedoms of religion, speech, the press, assembly, and to petition the government.

Pro Tip: Nonprofits can protect themselves by ensuring full transparency in their operations and maintaining strong legal counsel.

What impact will this directive have on the ability of nonprofits to advocate for their causes? Do you believe the government has the right to investigate organizations based on their political views?

The Importance of Nonprofit Independence

Nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges, advocating for vulnerable populations, and promoting civic engagement. Their independence from government interference is essential for maintaining a healthy democracy and ensuring accountability.When governments attempt to control or suppress these organizations, it undermines the very foundations of a free and open society.

Frequently Asked questions

• What is the scope of this Presidential directive? The directive authorizes the Department of Justice to investigate nonprofits and individuals who support causes the administration opposes, potentially encompassing a wide range of organizations and activities.
• What are the potential consequences for nonprofits targeted by this directive? Potential consequences include investigations, prosecutions, revocation of tax-exempt status, and funding disruptions.
• How does this directive relate to the First Amendment? Critics argue the directive violates the First Amendment rights to free speech and association by targeting organizations based on their beliefs.
• What is the role of the Attorneys General in this situation? The Attorneys General are challenging the directive and vowing to protect the constitutional rights of nonprofits in their states.
• Is this directive unprecedented? legal experts suggest this directive represents an unusual and concerning escalation of government intervention in the nonprofit sector.
• What can nonprofits do to protect themselves? Nonprofits should prioritize transparency, maintain strong legal counsel, and advocate for their rights thru associations like the National Council of Nonprofits.
• What is the National Council of Nonprofits’ stance on this issue? The National Council of Nonprofits has condemned the administration’s attacks on nonprofits and has rallied support from organizations across the country.

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What legal mechanisms are available to state Attorneys General to protect nonprofits from politically motivated federal investigations?

Teh Core of the Dispute: Federal Overreach & Nonprofit Integrity

maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown has issued a strong condemnation of actions taken by the Trump administration targeting charitable organizations.The core of the issue revolves around allegations of politically motivated investigations and attempts to exert undue influence over the operations of nonprofits, specifically those perceived as critical of the former president’s policies. This has sparked concerns about the independence of the nonprofit sector and the potential chilling effect on philanthropic giving and advocacy. The Attorney General’s office views these actions as a direct threat to the principles of free speech and the vital role charities play in a democratic society. Key terms related to this include nonprofit law, charitable giving, political interference, and Attorney General investigations.

Specific Instances of Contested Actions

Several specific instances fueled the Attorney General’s condemnation. These include:

* Increased IRS Scrutiny: Reports surfaced detailing heightened IRS scrutiny of organizations applying for tax-exempt status, notably those with perceived liberal leanings. This included excessive document requests and prolonged review periods, creating meaningful administrative burdens.

* Attempts to Revoke Tax-Exempt Status: There were documented attempts to revoke the tax-exempt status of certain nonprofits based on allegations of engaging in political activity,even when such activity fell within legally permissible boundaries.

* Executive Order 13798 (and subsequent challenges): This executive order, aimed at “combating religious persecution,” was widely criticized as a pretext for targeting organizations supporting refugees and immigrants. Maryland, along with several other states, actively challenged this order in court. Immigrant rights,refugee assistance,and executive overreach are relevant search terms here.

* Pressure on Foundations: Allegations arose of direct pressure being applied to private foundations to alter their grantmaking priorities to align with the administration’s agenda.

Legal Basis for the Attorney General’s Concerns

The Maryland Attorney General’s stance is rooted in several legal principles. State Attorneys General have a long-standing responsibility to oversee charitable organizations operating within their jurisdictions.This oversight includes ensuring nonprofits adhere to their stated missions, operate transparently, and comply with all applicable laws. The actions of the Trump administration, as perceived by the Attorney General, violated these principles by:

* Undermining State Sovereignty: Interfering with the regulatory authority of state Attorneys general over nonprofits operating within their borders.

* Violating Due Process: Conducting investigations without sufficient evidence or due process protections.

* Infringing on First Amendment Rights: Chilling the exercise of free speech and association by nonprofits engaged in advocacy. First Amendment, due process, and state regulatory authority are crucial legal keywords.

Impact on Maryland’s Nonprofit Sector

The actions taken by the Trump administration had a tangible impact on Maryland’s vibrant nonprofit sector. Organizations reported:

1. Diversion of Resources: Spending significant time and money responding to unwarranted investigations and legal challenges, diverting resources from their core missions.
2. increased Caution: Exercising increased caution in their advocacy efforts, fearing potential retaliation from the federal government.
3. Decline in Donations: Experiencing a decline in donations as donors became concerned about the political climate and the potential for their contributions to be scrutinized.
4. Erosion of Public Trust: Facing an erosion of public trust as the integrity of the nonprofit sector was called into question.

Case Study: The ACLU and IRS Scrutiny

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) provides a prominent case study. During the Trump administration, the ACLU experienced intensified IRS scrutiny following its legal challenges to several presidential policies, including the travel ban. The IRS requested an unusually large volume of documents related to the ACLU’s political activities, raising concerns about a politically motivated audit.This case highlighted the potential for the IRS to be weaponized against organizations critical of the administration. ACLU, IRS audit, and political activism are important keywords related to this example.

Benefits of a Strong Nonprofit Sector & protecting charitable Giving

A robust and independent nonprofit sector is essential for a healthy democracy. These organizations provide critical services, advocate for critically important causes, and hold government accountable. Protecting charitable giving is paramount. here’s why:

* Social Safety Net: Nonprofits fill gaps in the social safety net, providing essential services to vulnerable populations.

* Civic Engagement: They promote civic engagement and empower communities.

* Innovation & Problem solving: They foster innovation and develop solutions to complex social problems.

* Economic Impact: They contribute significantly to the economy, creating jobs and generating revenue.

Practical Tips for Nonprofits Navigating political Challenges

Nonprofits can take several steps to protect themselves from politically motivated attacks:

* Maintain Strict Compliance: Ensure full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

* Document Everything: Maintain meticulous records of all activities, including communications with government officials.

* Seek Legal Counsel: Consult with experienced nonprofit attorneys to navigate complex legal issues.

* Diversify Funding Sources: Reduce reliance on any single funding source.

* Transparency & Accountability: Prioritize transparency and accountability in all operations. Nonprofit compliance, risk management, and legal counsel are relevant search terms.