New York AG Letitia James Announces New Lawsuit Against the Trump Administration

Letitia James announced her intention to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration in collaboration with other Democratic state attorneys general from states like California, Illinois, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. The lawsuit targets President Trump's directive to temporarily freeze federal grants, loans, and other forms of financial assistance. The purpose of the freeze is to give the Trump administration the ability to perform a comprehensive analysis of various programs, projects and activities to ensure they align with President Trump's executive orders.

James described the freeze as "reckless, dangerous, illegal, and unconstitutional" as these various programs provide funding for families, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. The lawsuit also asserts that the Trump administration's Office of Management and Budget exceeded its authority by ordering this freeze.

There was an immediate response following the announcement, with reports from at least 20 states, including New York, indicating issues with accessing funding, particularly Medicaid reimbursements. The White House clarified that individual assistance programs like Social Security and Medicare would not be affected.

Letitia James has been vocal regarding her intent to legally challenge the policy. She plans to seek a temporary restraining order in Manhattan federal court, hoping to halt the administration's action before the funding freeze takes effect.