Trump Administration Asks Supreme Court to Block $4 Billion in Foreign Aid
Washington, D.C. – The Trump administration has urged the U.S. Supreme Court to grant emergency approval to withhold more than $4 billion in foreign aid, reigniting a long-running battle over presidential power and congressional authority.
The funds, already allocated by Congress for global assistance programs, include billions designated for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the State Department, international peacekeeping efforts, and democracy-building initiatives abroad.
A federal district court ruled last week that the White House is legally obligated to spend the money, a decision later upheld by an appeals court. In response, the administration filed an urgent appeal with the Supreme Court, arguing that forcing the executive branch to release the funds undermines the president’s constitutional powers.
Solicitor General D. John Sauer, in Monday’s filing, wrote that the injunction “raises a grave and urgent threat to the separation of powers,” claiming that the president cannot speak with “one voice in foreign affairs” if compelled to spend money against his policy objectives.
Trump’s Use of Rare Legislative Tool
Since returning to office, President Trump has canceled billions in foreign aid, calling it wasteful and misaligned with U.S. interests. He has relied on a seldom-used mechanism known as the Impoundment Control Act’s pocket rescission, which allows presidents to request the cancellation of funds approved by Congress.
By notifying lawmakers in late August that the administration would not release the aid, Trump left little time for Congress to act before the fiscal year’s end. This maneuver could result in billions remaining unspent.
Legal Battle Intensifies
Nonprofits and businesses that depend on U.S. foreign aid filed lawsuits, warning that cutting the funds would devastate programs worldwide. Critics say it marks the first time in nearly 50 years that a president has attempted such a sweeping unilateral rollback of appropriated aid.
Judge Amir Ali ruled last week that the administration must release the money unless Congress explicitly votes to approve Trump’s request. The White House quickly appealed, but the case may now hinge on how the Supreme Court interprets executive authority in matters of foreign funding.
This is not the first time Trump’s foreign aid policy has reached the high court. In March, justices narrowly voted 5-4 against his bid to freeze $2 billion in aid while legal challenges moved forward.
What’s at Stake
The outcome could have far-reaching consequences for U.S. foreign policy and the balance of power between Congress and the president. Supporters of Trump’s move argue it gives Washington greater control over how taxpayer dollars are spent abroad, while opponents warn it undermines humanitarian work and America’s global influence.