Federal Judge Says Trump Administration Not Fully Compliant with Order to Halt Spending Freeze

A United States federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration has not fully adhered to his order pausing a federal spending freeze, which has caused disruption across government programs, Al Jazeera reports.

Judge John McConnell of the US District Court issued a call on Monday for the complete restoration of funding, pending judicial review of the freeze’s constitutionality. This follows reports from states indicating ongoing difficulties in accessing federal funds despite McConnell’s initial temporary restraining order issued on January 31.

The spending freeze is part of an effort by the Trump administration to reduce federal spending, focusing on what it deems unnecessary expenditures.

A lawsuit was filed by a coalition of 22 states, primarily led by Democratic governors, along with the District of Columbia, seeking to block the freeze. The lawsuit argues that the administration is infringing on the constitutional authority of Congress to manage budget matters.

Since taking office on January 20, President Trump and advisors, including Elon Musk, have advocated for reduced spending and restructuring of government agencies that have been historically targeted by conservatives.

The administration has also offered buyout packages to federal employees as an incentive for voluntary resignations.

Additionally, the administration has suspended nearly all US funding for overseas assistance programs and has initiated steps toward restructuring the US Agency for International Development (USAID).