Hard Power
Personnel
- Net reduction of 242,260 employees
- Political and ideological considerations
- SCOTUS case on the FTC
Use of Force
Since January 20, 2025:
- Venezuela: boat bombings and capture of Maduro):
- Iran: Airstrikes on nuclear facilities
- Yemen: Air strikes against Houthi militants
- Counterterrorism Strikes in Iraq, Nigeria, and Somalia.
Domestic use of National Guard, CBP, and ICE
Investigation and Prosecution
- James Comey: charges of making false statements to Congress and obstruction related to his 2020 testimony. The indictment was dismissed.
- John Bolton: indictment for alleged unauthorized retention and transmission of classified information.
- Letitia James New York Attorney General indicted in October 2025 on bank fraud and false statements charges. Case dismissed.
- Jerome H. Powell said DOJ as opened a criminal investigation into Powell; prosecutors are looking at cost overruns.
Threats: Regulatory Action and Funding
- Universities and funding
- Law firms representing Trump adversaries: contracts
- Media companies and FCC license threats
Soft Power: "Power to Persuade"
Support from congressional Republicans and One Big Beautiful Bill
