FBI's New Directive on Domestic Extremism
Dec, 7 2025
The memo aligns with the National Security Presidential Memorandum-7 (NSPM-7), which was issued by President Trump and is characterized as a broad declaration against various groups not aligned with the administration's views. The memo outlines a tactical approach for the government to operationalize this directive.
In addition to creating a list of targeted groups, the memo directs the FBI to enhance its tipline to solicit information from the public regarding these groups. It also establishes a cash reward system for information leading to the identification and arrest of leaders within these organizations. Furthermore, the memo instructs the FBI to prioritize funding for state and local law enforcement initiatives aimed at combating domestic terrorism.
The memo defines the domestic terrorism threat by citing extreme viewpoints on immigration and radical gender ideology, which federal law enforcement is instructed to report to FBI Joint Terrorism Task Forces (JTTFs). These task forces are authorized to utilize all available investigative tools to map networks of individuals involved in these activities, both domestically and internationally. The memo also allows for retroactive investigations of incidents occurring over the past five years.
The NSPM-7 directive was signed in response to a significant violent event, which the administration has likened to the impact of the September 11 attacks. This new approach raises concerns about the potential for increased scrutiny and action against a wide range of American citizens based on their political beliefs and expressions.