Case: The Interfaith Alliance v. Trump

1:26-cv-01075 | U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Filed Date: Feb. 9, 2026

Closed Date: July 27, 2026

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This is a case challenging the composition of the Religious Liberty Commission (RLC) over its alleged failure to promote religious pluralism. On February 9, 2026, a coalition of advocacy organizations – including the Interfaith Alliance, Muslims for Progressive Values, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Hindus for Human Rights, and a Reverend – filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Represented by Democracy Forward Foundation and Am…

This is a case challenging the composition of the Religious Liberty Commission (RLC) over its alleged failure to promote religious pluralism.

On February 9, 2026, a coalition of advocacy organizations – including the Interfaith Alliance, Muslims for Progressive Values, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Hindus for Human Rights, and a Reverend – filed this lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Represented by Democracy Forward Foundation and Americans United for Separation of Church and State, the plaintiffs sued the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the RLC, along with President Trump, the U.S. Attorney General, and the RLC’s federal officer in their official capacities. They asserted violations of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), alleging that the RLC, which was established to promote religious pluralism, was composed almost entirely of Christian members, excluded minority faith perspectives, and advanced a “Judeo-Christian” agenda through meetings. It further alleged that the RLC’s meetings were held at the Museum of the Bible and had closed its meetings with a Christian prayer “in Jesus’ name.” The plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief ordering the defendants to release its materials that were prepared for the RLC, along with attorney’s fees. This case was assigned to District Judge John P. Cronan.

On April 2, 2026, the plaintiffs filed a motion for a preliminary injunction preventing the RLC from issuing its final report while litigation proceeded to preserve the status quo. They argued that, due to the abrupt change in the RLC’s scheduling without warning, they were unable to provide input to the RLC’s final report, which would soon be read by policymakers. The plaintiffs further argued that they were likely to succeed on the merits, that they would face irreparable harm absent injunctive relief, and that the balance of harm and public interest weighed in their favor.

On April 28, 2026, the defendants filed a motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim and lack of subject matter jurisdiction. They argued that they were entitled to sovereign immunity, that the plaintiffs lacked standing, and that some of the claims were non-justiciable and failed to allege agency action.

On July 27, 2026, the court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss, dismissing the Reverend’s claims for lack of subject matter jurisdiction and the organizational plaintiffs’ claims for failure to state a claim. The plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction was denied as moot. Judge Cronan held that the RLC’s membership had a fair balance of viewpoints given the functions it performed and that only President Trump was responsible for selecting RLC members. The court further found that the President was not an “agency” under the APA and that the plaintiffs had not shown that the President violated the sort of “clear non-discretionary duty” which would entitle the plaintiffs to mandamus relief. 2026 WL 2149836.

This case is closed.

Summary Authors

Alexis Gil (8/19/2026)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/72248001/parties/the-interfaith-alliance-v-trump/


Judge(s)

Cronan, John Peter (New York)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Deffebach, Anna Lynn (New York)

Khan, Ayesha N. (New York)

Samuels, Jenny (New York)

Attorney for Defendant

Kumar, Dana Walsh (New York)

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Documents in this case
1

1:26-cv-01075

Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief

Feb. 9, 2026

Feb. 9, 2026

Complaint
39

1:26-cv-01075

Notice of Motion for Preliminary Injunction

The Interfaith Alliance et al. v. Trump et al.

April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

Pleading / Motion / Brief
40

1:26-cv-01075

Plaintiffs' Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion for Preliminary Injunction

The Interfaith Alliance et al.v. Trump et al.

April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

Pleading / Motion / Brief
52

1:26-cv-01075

Defendants’ Memorandum Of Law In Opposition To Plaintiffs’ Motion For A Preliminary Injunction And In Support Of Defendants’ Motion To Dismiss The Complaint

The Interfaith Alliance et al. v. Trump et al.

April 28, 2026

April 28, 2026

Pleading / Motion / Brief
67

1:26-cv-01075

Opinion and Order

The Interfaith Alliance et al. v. Trump et al.

July 27, 2026

July 27, 2026

Order/Opinion

2026 WL 2149836

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/72248001/the-interfaith-alliance-v-trump/

Last updated Sept. 7, 2026, 3:27 a.m.

Docket for: The Interfaith Alliance v. Trump
ECF Number Date Description Link
1 Feb. 9, 2026

COMPLAINT against All Defendants. (Filing Fee $ 405.00, Receipt Number ANYSDC-32381342)Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Muslims for Progressive Values, Hindus for Human Rights, The Interfaith Alliance, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/09/2026)

Clearinghouse
2 Feb. 9, 2026

CIVIL COVER SHEET filed..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/09/2026)

RECAP
3 Feb. 9, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Donald J. Trump, Pam Bondi, USAO, DOJ, Mary Margaret Bush, Religious Liberty Commission, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit DOJ Summons, # 2 Exhibit USAO Summons, # 3 Exhibit RLC Summons, # 4 Exhibit Bush Summons, # 5 Exhibit Bondi Summons).(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/09/2026)

RECAP
4 Feb. 10, 2026

COMPLAINT against Pamela Bondi, Mary Maragret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Muslims for Progressive Values, Hindus for Human Rights, The Interfaith Alliance, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
5 Feb. 10, 2026

CIVIL COVER SHEET filed..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
6 Feb. 10, 2026

MOTION for Anna L. Deffebach to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32389902. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit Affidavit, # 2 Proposed Order Order, # 3 Exhibit Exhibit).(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
7 Feb. 10, 2026

FILING ERROR - SUMMONS REQUEST PDF ERROR - REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Donald J. Trump, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) Modified on 2/11/2026 (jgo). (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
8 Feb. 10, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Pamela Bondi, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
9 Feb. 10, 2026

FILING ERROR - SUMMONS REQUEST PDF ERROR - REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to United States Attorney's Office, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) Modified on 2/11/2026 (jgo). (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
10 Feb. 10, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Donald Trump, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
11 Feb. 10, 2026

FILING ERROR - DUPLICATE DOCKET ENTRY - REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Pamela Bondi, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) Modified on 2/11/2026 (jgo). (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
12 Feb. 10, 2026

FILING ERROR - SUMMONS REQUEST PDF ERROR - REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Pamela Bondi, Civil Process Clerk, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) Modified on 2/11/2026 (jgo). (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
13 Feb. 10, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to The Department of Justice, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
14 Feb. 10, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to The Religious Liberty Commission, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
15 Feb. 10, 2026

REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS as to Mary Margaret Bush, re: 1 Complaint,. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 02/10/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 10, 2026

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING PARTY MODIFICATION. Notice to attorney Anna Lynn Deffebach. The party information for the following party/parties has been modified: Donald J. Trump, Pamela Bondi, Department of Justice, Mary Maragret Bush. The information for the party/parties has been modified for the following reason/reasons: party name contained a typographical error; party text was omitted. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

Notice to Attorney Regarding Party Modification

Feb. 10, 2026

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Request for Issuance of Summons

Feb. 10, 2026

Case Opening Initial Assignment Notice

Feb. 10, 2026

Notice Regarding Pro Hac Vice Motion

Feb. 10, 2026

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT PLEADING. Notice to Attorney Anna Lynn Deffebach to RE-FILE Document No. 1 Complaint. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): the All Defendant radio button was selected. Re-file the pleading using the event type Complaint found under the event list Complaints and Other Initiating Documents - attach the correct signed PDF - select the individually named filer/filers - select the individually named party/parties the pleading is against. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Pleading

Feb. 10, 2026

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT CIVIL COVER SHEET. Notice to attorney Anna Lynn Deffebach to RE-FILE Document No. 2 Civil Cover Sheet. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): Nature of Suit Error. Place an [X] in One Box Only. Re-file the document using the event type Civil Cover Sheet found under the event list Other Documents and attach the correct PDF. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Civil Cover Sheet

Feb. 10, 2026

CASE OPENING INITIAL ASSIGNMENT NOTICE: The above-entitled action is assigned to Judge John P. Cronan. Please download and review the Individual Practices of the assigned District Judge, located at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/judges/district-judges. Attorneys are responsible for providing courtesy copies to judges where their Individual Practices require such. Please download and review the ECF Rules and Instructions, located at https://nysd.uscourts.gov/rules/ecf-related-instructions..(vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

Magistrate Judge Gary Stein is designated to handle matters that may be referred in this case. Pursuant to 28 U.S.C. Section 636(c) and Fed. R. Civ. P. 73(b)(1) parties are notified that they may consent to proceed before a United States Magistrate Judge. Parties who wish to consent may access the necessary form at the following link: https://nysd.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/2018-06/AO-3.pdf. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

Case Designated ECF. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS. Notice to Attorney Anna Lynn Deffebach to RE-FILE Document No. 3 Request for Issuance of Summons. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): the PDF attached to the docket entry for the issuance of summons is not correct; The summons requested was not processed due to multiple summonses attached as one filing. Please file your request for summons either separately OR with a rider listing each defendants name; Defendant party names listed on Summons PDF does not correspond exactly to pleading caption. Re-file the document using the event type Request for Issuance of Summons found under the event list Service of Process - select the correct filer/filers - and attach the correct summons form PDF. (vf)

Feb. 10, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING PRO HAC VICE MOTION. Regarding Document No. 6 MOTION for Anna L. Deffebach to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32389902. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff.. The document has been reviewed and there are no deficiencies. (bc)

16 Feb. 11, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to The Department of Justice..(jgo) (Entered: 02/11/2026)

RECAP
17 Feb. 11, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to Donald Trump..(jgo) (Entered: 02/11/2026)

RECAP
18 Feb. 11, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to Mary Margaret Bush..(jgo) (Entered: 02/11/2026)

RECAP
19 Feb. 11, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to Pamela Bondi..(jgo) (Entered: 02/11/2026)

RECAP
20 Feb. 11, 2026

ELECTRONIC SUMMONS ISSUED as to The Religious Liberty Commission..(jgo) (Entered: 02/11/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 11, 2026

Notice to Attorney Regarding Deficient Request for Issuance of Summons

Feb. 11, 2026

***NOTICE TO ATTORNEY REGARDING DEFICIENT REQUEST FOR ISSUANCE OF SUMMONS. Notice to Attorney Anna Lynn Deffebach to RE-FILE Document No. 12 Request for Issuance of Summons, 9 Request for Issuance of Summons,. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): the PDF attached to the docket entry for the issuance of summons is not correct; party whom summons is requested for is not a party of record; Defendant party name must be listed before 'c/o'. Re-file the document using the event type Request for Issuance of Summons found under the event list Service of Process - select the correct filer/filers - and attach the correct summons form PDF. (jgo)

21 Feb. 20, 2026

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT DOCKET ENTRY - MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32438420. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit Affidavit, # 2 Proposed Order Order, # 3 Exhibit Exhibit).(Thurston, Robin) Modified on 2/20/2026 (rju). (Entered: 02/20/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 20, 2026

Notice Regarding Deficient Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Feb. 20, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING DEFICIENT MOTION TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE. Notice to RE-FILE Document No. 21 MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32438420. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff... The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): missing Certificate of Good Standing from Supreme Court of Illinois;. Re-file the motion as a Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice - attach the correct signed PDF - select the correct named filer/filers - attach valid Certificates of Good Standing issued within the past 30 days - attach Proposed Order.. (rju)

22 Feb. 23, 2026

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT DOCKET ENTRY - MOTION for Ayesha N. Khan to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32444184. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order Order, # 2 Affidavit Affidavit, # 3 Exhibit COGS).(Khan, Ayesha) Modified on 2/24/2026 (rju). (Entered: 02/23/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 24, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING DEFICIENT MOTION TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE. Notice to RE-FILE Document No. 22 MOTION for Ayesha N. Khan to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32444184. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff... The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): missing Certificate of Good Standing from Supreme Court of Maryland; expired Certificate of Good Standing from District of Columbia;. Re-file the motion as a Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice - attach the correct signed PDF - select the correct named filer/filers - attach valid Certificates of Good Standing issued within the past 30 days - attach Proposed Order.. (rju)

Feb. 24, 2026

Notice Regarding Deficient Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice

23 Feb. 25, 2026

MOTION for Ayesha N. Khan to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order Order, # 2 Affidavit Affidavit, # 3 Exhibit MD COGS, # 4 Exhibit DC COGS).(Khan, Ayesha) (Entered: 02/25/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 25, 2026

Notice Regarding Pro Hac Vice Motion

Feb. 25, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING PRO HAC VICE MOTION. Regarding Document No. 23 MOTION for Ayesha N. Khan to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff.. The document has been reviewed and there are no deficiencies. (rju)

24 Feb. 26, 2026

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 6 Motion for Anna L. Deffebach to Appear Pro Hac Vice. IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that Applicant is admitted to practice Pro Hac Vice in the above captioned case in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. All attorneys appearing before this Court are subject to the Local Rules of this Court, including the Rules governing discipline of attorneys. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 2/26/2026) (ar) Transmission to Attorney Services/Help Desk. (Entered: 02/26/2026)

RECAP
25 Feb. 26, 2026

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 23 Motion for Ayesha N. Khan to Appear Pro Hac Vice. IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that Applicant is admitted to practice Pro Hac Vice in the above captioned case in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. All attorneys appearing before this Court are subject to the Local Rules of this Court, including the Rules governing discipline of attorneys. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 2/26/2026) (ar) Transmission to Attorney Services/Help Desk. (Entered: 02/26/2026)

RECAP
26 Feb. 27, 2026

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT DOCKET ENTRY - MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order Order, # 2 Affidavit Affidavit, # 3 Exhibit DC COGS).(Thurston, Robin) Modified on 2/27/2026 (bc). (Entered: 02/27/2026)

RECAP
27 Feb. 27, 2026

MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Proposed Order Order, # 2 Affidavit Affidavit, # 3 Exhibit DC COGS).(Thurston, Robin) (Entered: 02/27/2026)

RECAP
Feb. 27, 2026

Notice Regarding Deficient Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice

Feb. 27, 2026

Notice Regarding Pro Hac Vice Motion

Feb. 27, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING DEFICIENT MOTION TO APPEAR PRO HAC VICE. Notice to RE-FILE Document No. 26 MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. The filing is deficient for the following reason(s): missing Certificate of Good Standing from Supreme Court of Illinois;. Re-file the motion as a Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice - attach the correct signed PDF - select the correct named filer/filers - attach valid Certificates of Good Standing issued within the past 30 days - attach Proposed Order.. (bc)

Feb. 27, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING PRO HAC VICE MOTION. Regarding Document No. 27 MOTION for Robin F. Thurston to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff.. The document has been reviewed and there are no deficiencies. (bc)

28 March 2, 2026

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Ayesha N. Khan on behalf of Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Khan, Ayesha) (Entered: 03/02/2026)

RECAP
29 March 5, 2026

SUMMONS RETURNED EXECUTED. Donald Trump served on 3/3/2026, answer due 3/24/2026. Service was made by MAIL. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund; Muslims for Progressive Values; Hindus for Human Rights; The Interfaith Alliance; Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

RECAP
30 March 5, 2026

SUMMONS RETURNED EXECUTED. The Religious Liberty Commission served on 2/19/2026, answer due 3/12/2026. Service was made by MAIL. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund; Muslims for Progressive Values; Hindus for Human Rights; The Interfaith Alliance; Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

RECAP
31 March 5, 2026

SUMMONS RETURNED EXECUTED. The Department of Justice served on 2/23/2026, answer due 3/16/2026. Service was made by MAIL. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund; Muslims for Progressive Values; Hindus for Human Rights; The Interfaith Alliance; Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

RECAP
32 March 5, 2026

SUMMONS RETURNED EXECUTED. Mary Margaret Bush served on 2/19/2026, answer due 3/12/2026. Service was made by MAIL. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund; Muslims for Progressive Values; Hindus for Human Rights; The Interfaith Alliance; Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

RECAP
33 March 5, 2026

SUMMONS RETURNED EXECUTED. Pamela Bondi served on 2/23/2026, answer due 3/16/2026. Service was made by MAIL. Document filed by Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund; Muslims for Progressive Values; Hindus for Human Rights; The Interfaith Alliance; Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 03/05/2026)

RECAP
34 March 6, 2026

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 27 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The motion of Robin F. Thurston for admission to practice Pro Hac Vice in the above captioned action is granted.. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 3/6/2026) (jca) Transmission to Attorney Services/Help Desk. (Entered: 03/06/2026)

RECAP
35 March 19, 2026

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Dana Walsh Kumar on behalf of Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Kumar, Dana) (Entered: 03/19/2026)

RECAP
36 March 19, 2026

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Carly Iris Weinreb on behalf of Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 03/19/2026)

RECAP
37 March 26, 2026

MOTION for Jenny Samuels to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32611103. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance. (Attachments: # 1 Affidavit Affidavit, # 2 Proposed Order Proposed Order, # 3 Exhibit DC Certificate of Good Standing, # 4 Exhibit NY Certificate of Good Standing).(Samuels, Jenny) (Entered: 03/26/2026)

RECAP
March 27, 2026

>>>NOTICE REGARDING PRO HAC VICE MOTION. Regarding Document No. 37 MOTION for Jenny Samuels to Appear Pro Hac Vice . Filing fee $ 200.00, receipt number ANYSDC-32611103. Motion and supporting papers to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff.. The document has been reviewed and there are no deficiencies. (bc)

March 27, 2026

Notice Regarding Pro Hac Vice Motion

38 April 1, 2026

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 37 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. The motion of jenny Samuels, for admission to practice Pro Hac Vice in the above captioned action is granted. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 4/1/2026) (jca) (Entered: 04/01/2026)

RECAP
April 1, 2026

Transmission to Attorney Services/Help Desk. Transmitted re: 38 Order on Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice, to Attorney Services/Help Desk for case processing..(jca)

39 April 2, 2026

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

Clearinghouse
40 April 2, 2026

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . . Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

Clearinghouse
41 April 2, 2026

DECLARATION of Paul Brandeis Raushenbush in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction .. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Raushenbush Application to Religious Liberty Commission).(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

1 Exhibit Raushenbush Application to Religious Liberty Commission

View on RECAP

RECAP
42 April 2, 2026

DECLARATION of Ani Zonneveld in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction .. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

RECAP
43 April 2, 2026

DECLARATION of Ria Chakrabarty in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction .. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

RECAP
44 April 2, 2026

DECLARATION of Kiran Kaur Gill in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction .. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

RECAP
45 April 2, 2026

PROPOSED ORDER. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund. Related Document Number: 39 ..(Deffebach, Anna) Proposed Order to be reviewed by Clerk's Office staff. (Entered: 04/02/2026)

RECAP
46 April 2, 2026

ORDER Counsel for all parties must appear before the undersigned for a hearing on Plaintiffs' motion on April 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 4/2/2026) (bk) (Entered: 04/02/2026)

RECAP
April 6, 2026

***NOTICE TO COURT REGARDING PROPOSED ORDER. Document No. 45 Proposed Order, was reviewed and approved as to form. (tp)

April 6, 2026

Notice to Court Regarding Proposed Order

47 April 7, 2026

CONSENT LETTER MOTION for Extension of Time of preliminary injunction motion briefing schedule and adjournment of hearing addressed to Judge John P. Cronan from Defendants dated 4/7/2026. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 04/07/2026)

RECAP
48 April 8, 2026

ORDER granting 47 Letter Motion for Extension of Time. The extension request is granted. Defendants' combined opposition to Plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction and motion to dismiss is due April 28, 2026. Plaintiffs' combined reply in support of their motion for a preliminary injunction and opposition to Defendants' motion to dismiss is due May 11, 2026. Defendants' reply in support of their motion to dismiss is due May 22, 2026. The hearing scheduled for April 27, 2026 is adjourned until May 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. SO ORDERED. Motions due by 4/28/2026.. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 4/8/2026) (jca) (Entered: 04/08/2026)

RECAP
April 8, 2026

Set/Reset Deadlines: ( Responses due by 5/11/2026, Replies due by 5/22/2026.), Set/Reset Hearings:( Status Conference set for 5/28/2026 at 02:00 PM before Judge John P. Cronan.) (jca)

49 April 28, 2026

CONSENT LETTER MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages addressed to Judge John P. Cronan from Dana Walsh Kumar dated April 28, 2026. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Kumar, Dana) (Entered: 04/28/2026)

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50 April 28, 2026

ORDER granting 49 Letter Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages. The request is granted. The Government may file an oversized brief of up to 40 pages. The Clerk of Court is respectfully directed to close Dkt. 49. SO ORDERED (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 4/28/2026) (jca) (Entered: 04/28/2026)

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51 April 28, 2026

MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 04/28/2026)

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52 April 28, 2026

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 51 MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint. and in opposition to Plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 04/28/2026)

Clearinghouse
53 April 28, 2026

DECLARATION of Mary Margaret Bush in Support re: 51 MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint.. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 04/28/2026)

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54 May 8, 2026

CONSENT LETTER MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages addressed to Judge John P. Cronan from Anna L. Deffebach dated May 8, 2026. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 05/08/2026)

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55 May 8, 2026

ORDER granting 54 Letter Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages. The request is granted. Plaintiffs may submit an oversized brief of up to 40 pages. The Clerk of Court is respectfully directed to close Dkt. 54. SO ORDERED. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 5/8/2026) (jca) (Entered: 05/08/2026)

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56 May 11, 2026

REPLY MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 39 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . and in opposition to Defendants' Motion to Dismiss the Complaint. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 05/11/2026)

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57 May 20, 2026

ORDER The hearing scheduled for May 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. is adjourned to June 4, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. The hearing will be held in Courtroom 12D of the Daniel Patrick Moynihan U.S. Courthouse, 500 Pearl Street, New York, New York 10007. (HEREBY ORDERED by Judge John P. Cronan) (Text Only Order) (bk) (Entered: 05/20/2026)

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58 May 20, 2026

CONSENT LETTER MOTION for Oral Argument by Videoconference or Reschedule addressed to Judge John P. Cronan from Anna Deffebach dated May 20, 2026. Document filed by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, Hindus for Human Rights, Muslims for Progressive Values, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, The Interfaith Alliance..(Deffebach, Anna) (Entered: 05/20/2026)

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May 20, 2026

Order

59 May 21, 2026

ORDER granting 58 Letter Motion for Oral Argument. The Court will hold the hearing on June 4, 2026 remotely. At 2:30 p.m., counsel for all parties should call (855) 244-8681, access code 2302 755 2307. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 5/21/2026) (rro) (Entered: 05/21/2026)

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60 May 21, 2026

CONSENT LETTER MOTION for Leave to File Excess Pages addressed to Judge John P. Cronan from Dana Walsh Kumar dated May 21, 2026. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Kumar, Dana) (Entered: 05/21/2026)

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May 21, 2026

Set/Reset Hearings: Telephone Conference set for 6/4/2026 at 02:30 PM before Judge John P. Cronan. (rro)

61 May 22, 2026

ORDER granting 60 Letter Motion for Leave to File Excess Pages. The request is granted. The Government may file an oversized reply brief of up to 20 pages. The Clerk of Court is respectfully directed to close Dkt. 60. (Signed by Judge John P. Cronan on 5/22/2026) (rro) (Entered: 05/22/2026)

RECAP
62 May 22, 2026

REPLY MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 51 MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint. . Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 05/22/2026)

RECAP
63 May 22, 2026

DECLARATION of Mary Margaret Bush in Support re: 51 MOTION to Dismiss the Complaint.. Document filed by Pamela Bondi, Mary Margaret Bush, Donald Trump, The Department of Justice, The Religious Liberty Commission..(Weinreb, Carly) (Entered: 05/22/2026)

RECAP
June 4, 2026

Minute Entry for proceedings held before Judge John P. Cronan: Telephone Conference held on June 4, 2026. The Court heard oral argument on Plaintiffs motion for a preliminary injunction and Defendants motion to dismiss the Complaint. (Court Reporter Dana Schaaf) (mhe)

June 8, 2026

Telephone Conference

June 18, 2026

Transmission to Attorney Services/Help Desk

Case Details

State / Territory:

New York

Case Type(s):

Speech and Religious Freedom

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority

Special Collection(s):

Trump Administration 2.0: Challenges to the Government

Key Dates

Filing Date: Feb. 9, 2026

Closing Date: July 27, 2026

Case Ongoing: No

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Several faith-based organizations representing Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus, and the Interfaith Alliance

Plaintiff Type(s):

Non-profit religious organization

Attorney Organizations:

Democracy Forward

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

Federal

Attorney General of the United States

Department of Justice

Designated Federal Officer of the Religious Liberty Commission

Donald Trump

Religious Liberty Commission

Facility Type(s):

Government-run

Case Details

Causes of Action:

Administrative Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. §§ 551 et seq.

Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), 5 U.S.C. §§ 1001 et seq.

Mandamus, 28 U.S.C. § 1361

Other Dockets:

Southern District of New York 1:26-cv-01075

Available Documents:

Complaint (any)

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Defendant

Relief Sought:

Attorneys fees

Declaratory judgment

Injunction

Relief Granted:

None

Source of Relief:

None

Issues

Discrimination Area:

Content/viewpoint discrimination

Affected Religion(s):

Hinduism

Islam

Sikhism

Presidential/Gubernatorial Authority:

Access to information systems

Recommended Citation