April 2025 | American Democracy Minute

What is a ‘Baby FARA’ and Why are States Enacting It?

April 30, 2025April 30, 2025

The federal version of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, or FARA, has been in place since 1938, but recently, states are passing their own versions, nicknamed “baby FARAs.” What are they, and how do they relate to American Democracy?

US DOJ Removes Senior Managers from Voting Section, Abandons Current Cases, in Further Erosion of Voting Rights Protections

April 29, 2025April 29, 2025

The Trump administration’s U.S. Department of Justice reportedly reassigned top managers of the Voting Section, and instructed remaining attorneys to drop pending cases. This includes voting rights and redistricting cases under the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

The Federal Election Commission is Reportedly Now Out of Commission with the Departure of Another Member. It’s Unlikely to Get Fixed Soon.

April 28, 2025April 28, 2025

As if the Federal Election Commission didn’t have enough problems, another member has reportedly chosen not to continue when his term runs out April 30th. That leaves the normally six-member commission with three, and unable to conduct business.

Federal Judge Blocks Proof of Citizenship Provisions in Trump Executive Order on Elections

April 27, 2025April 27, 2025

A partial victory for pro-voter groups April 24th, as a federal judge blocked the proof of citizenship portion of President Donald Trump’s executive order changing federal elections. The judge did not address other sections, which she suggested were best challenged by states, rather than voters.

Trump ‘Meme Coin’ Cryptocurrency Scheme Selling Access to the President Raises Alarms for Emolument Clause Violations

April 24, 2025April 24, 2025

President Donald Trump launched a cryptocurrency “meme coin” with his likeness on January 17th, just before inauguration day. April 21st, with its value plummeting, the company offered top buyers of the coin a dinner with Trump and a personal tour of the White House. That likely violates the Emoluments Clause.