On Wednesday, the government watchdog organization Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) initiated legal action against the Trump administration regarding the status of Jared Kushner. The lawsuit contends that Kushner’s appointment to his government role is unconstitutional, specifically alleging a violation of the Appointments Clause. This clause of the U.S. Constitution outlines the requirements for how federal officers are appointed and confirmed.

In its filing, CREW argues that Kushner is currently exercising government authority without having met the necessary legal requirements for his position. The group is seeking a court order to bar Kushner from continuing to occupy his government role or exercising official authority. The lawsuit serves as a formal challenge to the administration’s interpretation of federal hiring and appointment laws as they apply to presidential advisors and family members.

While the lawsuit focuses on the legal framework of the Appointments Clause, it highlights a broader debate regarding the extent of presidential power in appointing staff. The administration has not yet issued a detailed public response to the specific claims made in this filing, and the legal proceedings are in their initial stages. The case will likely hinge on whether the court views Kushner’s specific role as one that requires formal confirmation under the Appointments Clause or if it falls under the discretionary power of the president to appoint personal staff.