Trump Administration Seeks Supreme Court Approval for Mass Federal Layoffs

The Trump administration has repeatedly sought Supreme Court intervention to proceed with mass layoffs across over 20 federal agencies, following a February executive order aimed at reducing the federal workforce. Central to the legal dispute is U.S. District Judge Susan Illston's temporary restraining order, which halted numerous reduction-in-force actions and required agencies to produce documents, citing concerns over procedural compliance and the president's authority. The administration argues that Illston's order exceeds judicial authority, improperly restrains the executive branch's power, and causes harm by retaining employees deemed unnecessary by agencies. This appeal is part of an unprecedented surge in emergency applications by the administration, reflecting its aggressive legal strategy to dismantle federal workforce policies. Opponents, including large federal workers’ unions, nonprofits, and Democratic-leaning states, contend that the administration violates the law and separation of powers. The Supreme Court is being asked to lift the lower court’s order and allow layoffs to proceed without further judicial delay or the need for legislative cooperation.