U.S. District Judge James Boasberg, known for opposing the Trump administration’s deportation policies, has been assigned to oversee the high-profile “Signalgate” lawsuit.
The case involves allegations that former Trump officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, used the encrypted messaging app Signal to discuss classified military operations in Yemen, potentially violating federal record-keeping laws.
The lawsuit, brought by the watchdog group American Oversight, claims these officials’ use of Signal violated the Federal Records Act. Controversy erupted when Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was mistakenly added to the chat, exposing sensitive military discussions.
Judge Boasberg previously blocked the Trump administration’s efforts to deport Venezuelan nationals using wartime powers, a decision that angered conservatives. His appointment to this case—determined through a random court selection process—has raised eyebrows given his past rulings against Trump-era policies.
Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how government officials use encrypted messaging platforms.
If the court rules in favor of American Oversight, it may lead to stricter enforcement of federal record-keeping laws and increased scrutiny of digital communications within government agencies.
The Biden administration has remained silent on the matter, while critics argue the case is politically motivated.