Court Rejects Challenge in 5-4 Decision
The US Supreme Court has ruled against the Trump administration’s attempt to block a federal judge’s order requiring the release of $2 billion in foreign aid. In a narrow 5-4 decision, the court refused to overturn the judge’s deadline, which mandated the Republican administration to distribute the funds already allocated for completed projects.
Court Sides with Lower Judge’s Decision
US District Judge Amir Ali had originally ordered the government to distribute the money. The Supreme Court upheld this ruling, instructing Ali to clarify the steps the administration must take to comply with the decision.
This ruling is a setback for the Trump administration, but nonprofit organizations and businesses that depend on these funds are still awaiting payments. One nonprofit organization reported that financial delays had already forced them to lay off 110 employees last week.
This marks the second time the administration has unsuccessfully appealed to the Supreme Court to limit the authority of lower-court judges in legal disputes over Trump’s policies.
Conservative Justices Dissent
Justice Samuel Alito, joined by three other conservative justices, dissented strongly against the ruling. Alito argued that Judge Ali overstepped his authority by mandating the payments.
“This is an act of judicial overreach that unfairly burdens taxpayers with a $2 billion penalty,” Alito wrote in his dissent.
Despite opposition, Ali’s temporary restraining order remains in effect, preventing the aid freeze. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday to determine whether the order will be extended.
Majority Ruling Highlights Key Legal Points
The Supreme Court’s majority decision noted that the administration had never directly challenged Ali’s initial ruling—only the imposed deadline, which had already expired the previous week.
Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, both conservatives, joined the three liberal justices to form the majority ruling. Meanwhile, Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh sided with Alito in opposition.
As the legal battle continues, affected organizations and businesses await the final resolution of the case.
For ongoing updates on this case, visit EuroNews24.