Trump Orders DOJ Probe Into Federal Grant Lobbying Abuse

President Donald Trump has directed the Attorney General to investigate whether federal grant recipients are misusing taxpayer funds for illegal lobbying and partisan political activities, citing concerns over grants with "highly political overtones." The directive highlights that such spending may constitute a wasteful, abusive, and potentially fraudulent use of American taxpayer money and emphasizes that federal law strictly prohibits using appropriated funds for lobbying or supporting political candidates or parties. The Attorney General is tasked with reporting findings within 180 days and taking appropriate enforcement actions if violations of 31 U.S.C. 1352 are found. While the Trump administration frames the investigation as a measure to protect the integrity of federal grant-making, ethics watchdogs warn that the probe could chill groups opposing the administration's agenda. The memorandum clarifies that it does not alter existing agency authorities or create enforceable rights for outside parties. This crackdown underscores the administration's focus on preventing federal grants from being used as slush funds for political or legislative advocacy.