Maine is among several states actively challenging the order in court, and local lawmakers are urging bipartisan action to protect critical programs.
MAINE, USA — A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Trump administration order to pause certain federal funding, a move that sparked widespread criticism and legal action. The judge’s decision halts the pause until at least Monday, providing a brief reprieve for states and communities dependent on federal aid.
The controversy began late Monday when the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued a directive halting financial assistance programs starting Tuesday at 5 p.m. The directive affects a portion of the $3 trillion allocated for federal grants and loans in the 2024 fiscal year.
In a letter, the OMB director justified the pause as part of efforts to realign taxpayer dollars with administration priorities, including advancing a “stronger and safer America” and combating “wokeness.”
However, critics—including Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey—have called the …