hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Prevents federal agencies from targeting people for political speech.
Sen. Murphy (D-CT) and several other Democratic Senators.
Introduced in the Senate, awaiting committee review.
The 'No Political Enemies Act' aims to stop federal officials from using government powers, like investigations or lawsuits, to punish individuals or groups for their constitutionally protected political speech or actions. It clarifies that the President cannot declare groups as 'domestic terrorist organizations' without specific legal authority. Senator Murphy, a Democrat from Connecticut, introduced this bill along with several other Democratic senators. It has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for consideration, and no votes have been taken yet.
Introduced Jan 14, 2026
This bill was introduced in the Senate on January 14, 2026, by Senator Murphy. It has been referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee for review. For it to become law, it must pass both the Senate (likely after committee review and a floor vote), then pass the House of Representatives, and finally be signed by the President. It is currently in the very early stages of the legislative process.
If this bill passes, it would make it illegal for federal government officials to launch investigations, regulatory actions, or lawsuits against you or your organization just because of your political speech or participation. You would have new legal avenues, including suing for injunctive relief to stop such targeting or even suing for damages if officials knowingly violated your rights. Furthermore, government employees involved in such targeting might lose their typical legal protections, making them personally accountable.
Supporters Say
Supporters argue the bill is crucial for protecting First Amendment rights and preventing government officials from targeting individuals for their political speech.
Critics Say
Critics might argue the bill could make it harder for the government to investigate and prosecute certain activities by individuals or groups who claim their actions are protected speech.
The bill's 'Findings' section explicitly states that the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to petition the government, and that no federal employee may violate these rights. This suggests that the bill's proponents see it as a critical safeguard against potential government overreach and the weaponization of federal power against political opponents or critics.