In a significant legal development, two federal judges have dealt setbacks to the Trump administration’s controversial shutdown of global aid programs and attempted dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The rulings come amid growing concerns about the humanitarian impact of a three-week funding freeze that has paralyzed American assistance programs worldwide.
Court orders temporary lifting of aid freeze
U.S. District Judge Amir Ali ordered the administration to temporarily lift its funding freeze on foreign assistance programs after reviewing a lawsuit filed by two health organizations. The judge criticized the administration’s blanket suspension of congressionally appropriated foreign aid, noting officials “have not offered any explanation for why a blanket suspension of all congressionally appropriated foreign aid, which set off a shockwave and upended” contracts with thousands of organizations “was a rational precursor to reviewing programs.”
USAID staffing crisis and worker protections
In a separate but related case, Judge Carl Nichols extended his previous order preventing the administration from forcing thousands of USAID employees onto leave status. The extension came after a lengthy hearing that highlighted serious concerns about employee safety, particularly for those stationed in high-risk areas overseas.
The situation has become particularly dire for USAID staff previously stationed in Congo, who reported being effectively abandoned during recent political violence and looting in the capital. These workers now find themselves stranded in Washington without housing or agency funding, facing uncertain employment futures.
Administrative challenges and legal standing
Deputy USAID head Pete Marocco claimed “insubordination” necessitated the removal of almost all USAID staff and the halt of aid programs to conduct program reviews. However, USAID employees have contested this characterization in court filings, stating they attempted to follow unclear directives, some allegedly coming from associates of Elon Musk and other outside parties.
The administration maintains broad authority in foreign affairs matters, with government lawyers asserting in court documents that “The President’s powers in the realm of foreign affairs are generally vast and unreviewable.” However, employee groups and Democratic lawmakers argue that congressional approval is required to shut down USAID or terminate its programs.
The controversy has intensified with additional administrative actions, including the revocation of USAID’s Washington headquarters lease. Agency supporters have informed Democratic senators that these moves appear designed to eliminate USAID before protective measures can be implemented by Congress or the courts.
