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The Political Scene | The New Yorker
How Trump’s Federal-Aid Fiasco Is Testing the Separation of Power
Jan 30, 2025
Join Harvard Law professor and New Yorker contributor Jeannie Suk Gersen as she dissects the recent turmoil surrounding Trump's federal funding memo. Gersen reveals how this directive has exposed tensions between the President and Congress, sparking a potential power struggle. She delves into the constitutional boundaries of executive authority, the significance of the 14th Amendment in Trump's policies, and the effects on budgetary control. The conversation offers a gripping look at the battle for power in Washington.
29:34
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's memo to halt federal funding revealed a significant expansion of executive power, prompting chaos and raising constitutional challenges.
- The discussion around Trump's executive orders highlights the complex relationship between the President's authority and Congressional power, further complicating governance.
Deep dives
Trump's Direct Intervention in Federal Funding
Donald Trump's recent memo aimed to halt the distribution of federal grants, which sparked immediate controversy and chaos within the government. By attempting to seize control over federal appropriations, Trump signaled a significant expansion of executive power, raising concerns about the legitimacy of his actions. Legal experts, including Harvard Law professor Jeanne Suit-Gerson, pointed out that while the president has discretion in interpreting laws, outright refusal to execute Congress's directives could lead to unprecedented constitutional challenges. The implications of this move suggest a dangerous precedent whereby the executive branch could unilaterally dictate the flow of federal funds, particularly by favoring entities that align with the president's political beliefs.
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Discover
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