What A Day Can Trump Just Pause Federal Funds?
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Jan 29, 2025 Casey Burgat, Director of the Legislative Affairs program at George Washington University and host of Mastering The Room, dives into the legal chaos following the Trump administration's attempt to freeze trillions in federal funds. He unpacks the administration's uphill legal battle and the implications for critical sectors like healthcare and education. The conversation also touches on the delicate balance of power between the presidency and Congress, and the unsettling trends in executive orders affecting marginalized communities.
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Presidential Power and Checks and Balances
- The president cannot unilaterally freeze funds appropriated by Congress.
- Checks and balances rely on courts and Congress to uphold constitutional powers.
Legality of Funding Freezes
- Trump's ability to pause federal funding may be legal short-term, but not long-term.
- Cancelling appropriated funds is illegal, as per the Impoundment Control Act.
Appropriations Process
- Federal grant money is appropriated through a lengthy congressional process.
- These appropriations bills, signed into law, specify spending amounts and durations.