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DOJ Memo Allows Trump to Block Congressional Adviser Records

8/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The DOJ memo on Monday says President Donald Trump may withhold private adviser communications and direct advisers’ talks with outsiders from congressional requests if they relate to decisionmaking.
Punchbowl News founder Jake Sharman warned the memo could hinder Democrats’ effort to hold the president accountable if they regain House.
The opinion could block congressional inquiries into Trump’s communications and let the administration withhold records from Trump-linked businesses, stalling Democrats’ probe.

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Story summary

The DOJ memo on Monday says President Donald Trump may withhold private adviser communications and direct advisers’ talks with outsiders from congressional requests if they relate to decisionmaking.
Punchbowl News founder Jake Sharman warned the memo could hinder Democrats’ effort to hold the president accountable if they regain House.
The opinion could block congressional inquiries into Trump’s communications and let the administration withhold records from Trump-linked businesses, stalling Democrats’ probe.