POLITICO Energy How Trump is upending America’s EV charger rollout
Feb 10, 2025
James Bikales, a POLITICO reporter, dives into the Trump administration's shocking suspension of a $5 billion initiative aimed at expanding the national EV charging network. He discusses the implications of this decision, which disrupts years of federal support and raises legal questions. The episode also highlights the backlash from the Trump campaign and how this shift affects states relying on previous funding for EV infrastructure. Bikales sheds light on the potential legal challenges and political maneuvers that could further complicate America's transition to electric vehicles.
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NEVI Program Paused
- The Trump administration halted the $5 billion NEVI program, impacting EV charging station rollout.
- This move breaks precedent for federal infrastructure dollars and raises legal questions.
Breaking Precedent
- Trump's halting of NEVI funds deviates from how federal highway programs usually operate.
- States typically receive allocated funds and expect reimbursement, but the NEVI pause disrupts this.
Legal Challenges Expected
- The NEVI pause is expected to face legal challenges due to the established precedent.
- Previous court rulings against Trump's funding pauses further complicate the situation.