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Trump's NSPM-7 Labels Dissent as Domestic Terrorism

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

President Trump signed NSPM-7, labeling perceived leftist dissent as domestic terrorism after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The memo directs agencies to investigate groups labeled anti-American, anti-capitalist, or anti-Christian.
Critics, including more than 3,000 nonprofits, warn the order could criminalize dissent.
Legal experts warn broad definitions may target peaceful protests and advocacy groups.

History

Historical Context

The Domestic Security Act of 1969 expanded U.S. government surveillance on groups labeled as subversive, leading to the FBI's COINTELPRO targeting civil rights organizations like the NAACP and Black Panther Party. In 2017, President Trump's NSPM-7 echoed this trend, raising alarms among over 3,000 nonprofits about potential criminalization of dissent, reminiscent of past governmental overreach against civil liberties.

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Story summary

President Trump signed NSPM-7, labeling perceived leftist dissent as domestic terrorism after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The memo directs agencies to investigate groups labeled anti-American, anti-capitalist, or anti-Christian.
Critics, including more than 3,000 nonprofits, warn the order could criminalize dissent.
Legal experts warn broad definitions may target peaceful protests and advocacy groups.

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