A federal judge has issued a restraining order after unions argue Trump's actions lack congressional authorization.
**Federal Court Halts Trump’s Attempt to Slash USAID Workforce**
**Federal Court Halts Trump’s Attempt to Slash USAID Workforce**
Temporary injunction blocks the plan to place over 2,200 USAID employees on leave amid disputes over federal spending.
A federal court has intervened to temporarily pause President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to significantly reduce the workforce of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The temporary restraining order issued by U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols stops the planned administrative leave for 2,200 of USAID's approximately 10,000 employees, two-thirds of whom are stationed overseas.
The emergency injunction arose from a lawsuit filed by the American Foreign Service Association and the American Federation of Government Employees, both representing USAID staff. The unions argue that Trump's attempt to dismantle the agency violates constitutional and federal law, as he lacked congressional backing for such actions. Judge Nichols, nominated by Trump himself during his first term, acknowledged the complexities of the case and is expected to formalize his order shortly.
Trump has long criticized USAID's role and spending, labeling it an inefficient use of taxpayer funds. His administration has been actively pursuing budget cuts across various federal agencies, including USAID, which has been targeted as part of a broader push to overhaul government spending. Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur, has become an influential figure in advising Trump on budgetary matters through the new advisory body "Department of Government Efficiency" (Doge).
The temporary halt to staffing changes follows alarming reports that 611 employees would remain, while most of the agency's workforce faced uncertainty. The Trump administration had signaled this shift in staffing as early as last Thursday, solidifying drastic changes at USAID, which has already seen a work suspension due to halted foreign assistance orders Trump issued soon after assuming office.
In a post on his social media platform, Trump expressed his views about USAID, claiming corruption within the agency is rampant and reiterated calls for its closure. This rhetoric marks a troubling transition for an agency that plays a pivotal role in U.S. humanitarian efforts abroad, managing a budget that constitutes over half of the country’s international aid spending.
Historically, the U.S. has been a leader in humanitarian response, with USAID working in over 60 countries, distributing much-needed aid to vulnerable populations. Critics, including former USAID leaders, warn that scaling back support could severely impact international relations and humanitarian assistance worldwide. As the situation unfolds, the potential ramifications of Trump's proposed changes remain a focal point of concern for both government employees and global observers.
