Courts across the country have been busy issuing rulings on various legal challenges to some of President Donald Trump's key priorities, particularly his significant overhaul of the federal government.
The Supreme Court recently made a decision that prevented Trump from immediately firing the head of an independent agency responsible for investigating whistleblower claims. This ruling allowed Hampton Dellinger to continue in the position at least until the middle of next week.
In another case, a federal judge issued a temporary block on certain directives from the Trump administration aimed at cracking down on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The judge ruled that the government could not freeze or cancel contracts related to equity, nor could it require grant recipients to certify that their programs do not promote DEI. The judge deemed these directives likely unconstitutional and applied the order nationwide.
On a different front, a federal judge, appointed by Trump during his first term, permitted the administration to proceed with its plans to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID). This decision is expected to face appeals in the future.
Furthermore, a federal judge once again blocked the Trump administration's proposed cuts in medical research funding, which many scientists argue could jeopardize patient care and delay critical studies. The judge had previously issued a temporary restraining order to halt the cuts.
Lastly, the Department of Government Efficiency's access to sensitive Treasury data remains restricted following conflicting rulings from federal judges in Virginia and New York.
