Trump Memo Could Target Activists as ‘Terrorists,’ ACLU Warns

A new directive from Donald Trump is raising serious concerns among civil liberties advocates. National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 (NSPM-7), issued on September 25, 2025, aims to counter domestic terrorism and organized political violence. However, the ACLU warns that its broad language could be used to intimidate and silence activists, nonprofit groups, and even their donors.

Chilling Effect on Free Speech

Hina Shamsi, Director of the ACLU National Security Project, described the memo as a “deliberate attempt to sow fear and intimidate and silence opposition to the president’s abuses.” She emphasized that such actions are a direct threat to fundamental human rights and civil liberties, suggesting that facing these challenges is becoming a “badge of courage and honor.”

While the memo doesn’t grant new legal powers, the ACLU points out that the rhetorical labeling of groups as “domestic terrorism organizations” is dangerously stigmatizing. There’s currently no legal framework for such designations within the U.S., and applying them would directly threaten First Amendment rights. It’s important to remember there isn’t even a standalone crime of “domestic terrorism.”

Vague Definitions and Historical Parallels

NSPM-7 directs federal law enforcement and Joint Terrorism Task Forces to investigate civil society groups using vague definitions. These definitions reportedly include ideologies like “anti-capitalism,” “anti-Christianity,” and “opposition to traditional American views.” The ACLU argues this approach invites abuse and echoes historical government overreach, such as the controversial COINTELPRO program.

Shamsi firmly stated that the president cannot simply rewrite the Constitution via memo. Rights guaranteed under the First, Fourth, Fifth, and Fourteenth Amendments remain intact. The ACLU is urging communities to stay informed, assert their constitutional rights, and actively push back against any efforts to stifle dissent or weaken civil society.