Federal judge rules Trump cannot enforce DEI, transgender executive orders
Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Executive Orders on Diversity and Inclusion
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A federal judge in California issued a ruling on Monday that prevents the Trump administration from enforcing executive orders that would require organizations to cease programs promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion or acknowledging transgender individuals in order to receive grant funding.
U.S. District Judge Jon Tigar stated in his order that a coalition of LGBTQ nonprofits had shown sufficient grounds to challenge several provisions in President Trump’s executive orders, arguing that they violate the Constitution.
Tigar emphasized in his ruling that the funding provisions in question were an attempt to censor constitutionally protected speech and services that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as recognize the existence of transgender individuals.
The judge further noted that while the executive branch has some leeway to implement its political agenda, it is still bound by the Constitution and cannot misuse Congressionally appropriated funds to discriminate against protected communities or suppress ideas it deems unfavorable.
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President Donald Trump arrives on Air Force One at Hagerstown Regional Airport, in Hagerstown, Maryland, on his way to Camp David, Maryland, on Sunday, June 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
Government attorneys argue that the president has the authority to align government funding and enforcement strategies with his policy objectives.
The plaintiffs contend that it is Congress, not the president, who holds the power to dictate how federal funds are utilized, and that the executive orders infringe upon free speech rights.
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The coalition of plaintiffs includes healthcare facilities, LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Historical Society, and the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, all of which receive federal funding and argue that compliance with the executive orders would hinder their ability to fulfill their missions.
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The judge’s injunction will remain in place pending further legal proceedings, although government lawyers are expected to appeal the decision.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
