Trump Administration Faces Lawsuit Over Shift in Anti-Terrorism Funding

The Trump administration is under fire after records revealed plans to redirect terrorism prevention funds from Democratic-led states to Republican-controlled ones. Twelve Democratic states, including New York, Illinois, and California, have filed a lawsuit alleging political retaliation for their refusal to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. The funding changes, part of a $1 billion Homeland Security Grants program established after the 9/11 attacks, saw Democratic-leaning states face sharp cuts—Washington, D.C. by 70%, Illinois by 69%, and New Jersey by 49%—while Republican-led states like Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Ohio reported significant increases.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson denied the cuts were politically driven, stating the new allocation formula prioritized threats from transnational crime and illegal border crossings. However, critics argue the pattern aligns with President Trump’s statements linking funding to political allegiance, notably his remark, “We’re only cutting Democrat programs.” A federal judge in Rhode Island has temporarily blocked the administration from distributing the funds pending the outcome of the lawsuit.

If the cuts proceed, California stands to lose $55 million despite hosting major global events like the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup next year. The funds have been crucial for states to bolster anti-terrorism measures, such as supporting bomb squads, emergency communications, and intelligence operations. Meanwhile, Florida would see a 76% funding increase, and a few non-Trump states like Oregon and Colorado would also gain modestly, underscoring the widespread scrutiny of the administration’s revised distribution plan.

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