Records from Trump’s First Term Are Eligible for Public Release. Here’s Why That Matters.

We break down what records are covered and how the legal process will work.

Trump administration accountability

American Oversight Seeks Trump 1.0 Records on First Day They Become Publicly Available Under Law

The Freedom of Information Act requests follow our call for Todd Blanche to step aside from any role overseeing release of Trum…

Trump administration accountability
Image of Donald Trump talking on the phone.

American Oversight Expands Lawsuit to Uncover Records on DOJ’s “Chief Enforcer” Ed Martin

Our amended complaint seeks records on Ed Martin, director of the Trump administration’s Weaponization Working Group.

Trump administration accountability
weaponization of government
Image of Ed Martin.

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An informed public, a strengthened democracy.

American Oversight is a nonpartisan, nonprofit watchdog that advances truth, accountability, and democracy by enforcing the public’s right to government records.

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What We’re Watching

What is happening with attacks on education?

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Public Education as a Political Weapon: The Rise of Ryan Walters
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American Oversight Applauds Court Ruling Blocking Trump Administration’s Unlawful Attack on Harvard Funding
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Pop Quiz! Can You Identify the Real Examples of Censorship?
What We’re Watching

What is happening with document preservation requirements?

Featured Document

Letter to NARA, DOD, and NAVY Regarding Reported Deletion of Footage of Oct. 17 Boat Strike
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Hegseth Must Resign in Wake of Pentagon IG Report Finding His Signal Use Put Troops in Danger
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American Oversight Sues DOJ Over Failure to Expedite Records Requests on Trump’s DOJ “Chief Enforcer” Ed Martin
What We’re Watching

What is happening with immigration?

litigation

American Oversight v. TSA and ICE — Data Sharing for Immigration Enforcement 
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American Oversight Sues Trump Administration Over Secretive TSA–ICE Data Sharing that Could Risk Air Travel Safety
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What Records Tell Us About How ICE Is Using Guantánamo

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News & Featured Documents

Court Orders DHS to Restore Congressional Oversight of ICE Detention Facilities

Emergency ruling reaffirms the right and duty of members of Congress to conduct unannounced inspections amid alarming reports of abuse.

detention center conditionsFederal
February 2, 2026

Demanding Answers on Trump’s Apparent Use of Auto-Deleting, Signal-Like Messaging App

We sent a letter to White House counsel seeking confirmation that presidential texts are being preserved and secured as required by law

January 27, 2026
Image of President Donald Trump and Department of Homeland Security Sec. Kristi Noem at a detention facility.

Members of Congress Ask for Emergency Court Intervention to Restore Congressional Oversight in ICE Detention Facilities

Emergency motion comes after members of Minnesota delegation were denied access to conduct oversight.

detention center conditionsTrump administration accountabilityFederal
January 26, 2026