President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday suspending the security clearances of employees at Perkins Coie, citing the law firm’s diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

Trump says he's suspending security clearances of lawyers at Perkins Coie, which was involved in launching oppo research during the 2016 campaign into any ties between Trump and Russia.

The order against the firm, which did work for Democrats during the 2016 campaign, represents an escalation of efforts to punish groups the president sees as aiding his enemies.