Trump Administration Cuts Data, Limits Lawmaker Access

The Trump administration is implementing significant federal budget cuts that primarily impact programs aiding low-income Americans, sparking debates over whether the Executive Branch can eliminate programs established and funded by Congress, given the Constitution's separation of powers. Concurrently, the administration has been criticized for withholding vital information and data from Congress and the public, including blocking lawmakers from discussing foreign aid cuts during overseas trips and halting important data collection and research across various federal agencies. This lack of transparency extends to withholding information from the courts in legal cases. Meanwhile, legislative efforts in states like Nevada to regulate pharmaceutical middlemen and impose other reforms have stalled or failed, reflecting broader challenges in passing new laws. In Florida, a federal court case is underway challenging racial gerrymandering in a state Senate district, highlighting ongoing tensions over fair districting practices. Together, these developments underscore tensions between branches of government and challenges in federal and state governance amid policy shifts and legal disputes.