US President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued an executive order targeting the law firm Jenner & Block, barring it from government contracts. The administration framed the order as a necessary measure to prevent conflicts of interest and safeguard national security, arguing that law firms engaged in legal opposition to the government should not benefit from privileged access to federal resources.

The order accused Jenner & Block of “engag[ing] in conduct detrimental to critical American interests” and “abandon[ing] the profession’s highest ideals.” Specifically, the administration stated that the firm used its “powerful pro bono” initiatives to undermine government and public interests. The order also accused the firm of hiring “dishonest” individuals who targeted Trump in prior litigation and engaging in racially discriminatory hiring practices.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) issued a statement strongly condemning the order and Trump’s “unpresidential behavior.” They accused Trump of a systematic campaign to eliminate “the pillars of free society” and target opposing viewpoints.

The action mirrors previous orders against firms such as Perkins Coie and Paul Weiss, which suspended security clearances for their attorneys and restricted access to government facilities and contracts. Paul Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP were targeted after providing pro bono services for former special counsel Jack Smith, who opened investigations into the January 6 riots. Similarly, Perkins Coie had its security clearance revoked and contracts canceled after providing services to clients challenging the administration’s executive order prohibiting trans women from participating in women’s sports. Additionally, the administration used federal agencies to target law firms it accused of discriminatory hiring.