20 States Sue Trump Administration Over Federal Funding Conditions

A coalition of 20 state Democratic attorneys general filed two federal lawsuits against the Trump administration, alleging it is unlawfully threatening to withhold billions in transportation and disaster-relief funds unless states comply with immigration enforcement conditions. The lawsuits target directives from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who have linked federal funding to cooperation with federal immigration efforts and the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. While no funds have yet been withheld, state officials, including California Attorney General Rob Bonta, warned that the threat is imminent and criticized the administration's use of funding as a political bargaining chip. The states argue that the administration is violating the U.S. Constitution by attempting to impose conditions on federal spending, a power reserved for Congress. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security defended the approach, stating that federal funds should not support jurisdictions that impede immigration law enforcement. Critics, including New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, condemned the timing and priorities of the administration, emphasizing the impact on critical infrastructure and public safety services.