Full Breakdown
Department of Labor Cuts Ties with American Bar Association Over Alleged Bias
2/10/2026, 10:16:08 PM
Department of Labor Directive
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a directive prohibiting its attorneys from engaging with the American Bar Association (ABA) in their official capacities. This decision, communicated by Labor Solicitor Jonathan Berry, stems from allegations that the ABA engages in liberal activism, which the DOL views as problematic. Berry's email, reviewed by multiple sources, emphasized that participation in ABA events would only serve to bolster the organization's influence, which he described as having "decidedly radical ideological positions" despite presenting itself as non-ideological at times.
Background on ABA and Previous Actions
The ABA, the largest professional association for lawyers in the United States, has been criticized by Republican officials for promoting left-leaning viewpoints. The organization has publicly supported various initiatives, including LGBTQ+ rights, abortion access, and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. This criticism is not new; the Department of Justice (DOJ) previously ceased its collaboration with the ABA regarding judicial nominee ratings, citing bias in the ABA's assessments of President Donald Trump's nominees. The ABA has also taken legal action against the Trump administration, accusing it of attempting to intimidate law firms into supporting its agenda.
Implications of the DOL's Decision
Berry's directive indicates a broader strategy by the Trump administration to diminish the ABA's influence within the legal community. He articulated that while there are benefits to engaging with the ABA, such participation inadvertently enhances the organization's stature, allowing it to promote its "radical goals" under the guise of neutrality. As a result, DOL attorneys are now barred from attending or speaking at ABA events using their government titles, and the department will no longer fund travel or registration fees for such engagements.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the DOL's decision argue that this move undermines the independence of legal professionals and restricts their ability to engage in important discussions within the legal community. The ABA has not publicly responded to the DOL's directive at this time, but the organization has previously defended its role as a national voice for the legal profession.
Official Statements & Responses
In his email, Berry stated, "Our participation in ‘neutral’ ABA events contributes to institutional stature the ABA leverages to advance radical goals as if they were ‘neutral.’ No more." This statement encapsulates the DOL's rationale for severing ties with the ABA, reflecting a significant shift in the relationship between federal legal professionals and the nation's largest legal association.
What's Next
The DOL's policy aligns with similar actions taken by the DOJ and the Federal Trade Commission, suggesting a coordinated effort to limit the ABA's influence. As this situation develops, it remains to be seen how the ABA will respond and what further implications this may have for legal professionals and their engagement with professional associations.
