What was the basis for the federal judge's ruling that President Trump's freeze on foreign aid funding was unconstitutional?

The judge ruled that the Trump administration overstepped its constitutional bounds by unilaterally deciding not to use funds allocated by Congress for foreign assistance, thus encroaching on Congress's exclusive right to decide on appropriations.

How much money was involved in the foreign aid freeze, and what was the deadline for payment?

The Trump administration was ordered to pay nearly $2 billion in foreign aid reimbursements. Initially, the deadline for payment was February 26, but it was later extended by a federal judge.

What was the Supreme Court's decision regarding the Trump administration's request to block the payment of foreign aid funds?

The Supreme Court denied the Trump administration's request to block the payment of foreign aid funds, ruling 5-4 against the administration's appeal.

What were the implications of the funding freeze on organizations receiving foreign aid?

The freeze forced organizations around the world to slash services and lay off thousands of workers due to the lack of funding.

3 sources·Politics

Federal Judge Rules Against Trump's Freeze on Foreign Aid Spending

A federal judge determined President Trump's freeze on foreign aid funding overstepped constitutional bounds, ordering the administration to pay outstanding debts.

33%

67%

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).

Mostly Reliable

The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.

Leans Right

The underlying sources slightly lean right.

These arguments – and the ruling from Ali – could eventually kick the issue back up to the Supreme Court, should the government move to appeal any part of the memo or the allegations.
Federal judge orders Trump administration to pay 'unlawfully' restricted USAID funds
FOX News·9d
Mostly Reliable
This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
·
Leans Right
This outlet slightly leans right.
The dismantling of USAID that followed Trump’s order upended decades of policy that humanitarian and development aid abroad advanced U.S. national security by stabilizing regions and economies, strengthening alliances and building goodwill.
Trump overstepped his constitutional authority in freezing Congress' funding for USAID, judge says
Associated Press·9d
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The dismantling of USAID that followed Trump’s order upended decades of policy that humanitarian and development aid abroad advanced U.S. national security by stabilizing regions and economies, strengthening alliances and building goodwill.
Trump Overstepped His Constitutional Authority in Freezing Congress' Funding for USAID, Judge Says
Newsmax·9d
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
·
Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.

Mar 11th, 2025, 2:08 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

U.S. District Judge Amir H. Ali ruled that President Trump's freeze on foreign aid funding violated constitutional authority, stating that Congress alone dictates appropriations. Despite a significant cutback in aid programs led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the ruling requires the administration to pay nearly $2 billion owed to contractors for completed work. The judge noted an excessive executive overreach, highlighting ongoing controversy regarding the funding and future of U.S. foreign aid. The decision raises questions about presidential power and the administration's commitment to international humanitarian efforts.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

A federal judge ruled that the Trump administration likely overstepped its constitutional authority by freezing foreign aid funding, emphasizing that the power to determine spending rests with Congress, not the executive branch.
The ruling mandates the Trump administration to pay outstanding foreign aid funds, highlighting concerns about the massive cuts made to USAID programs without congressional approval.
Critics argue that the drastic reduction in foreign aid programs undermines U.S. national interests and key aspects of international relations, which have relied on humanitarian assistance.

FAQs

A list of follow-up questions readers often ask about this story.