I am extremely concerned about the Trump administration’s illegal orders freezing federal hiring, funding, and grants that so many of us depend on. This unconstitutional move by the Trump administration contradicts Congressionally-directed resources and has deliberately created chaos, confusion, and fear in our communities.
On the evening of Tuesday, January 28, a federal judge ordered a halt to any funding freeze. The administrative hold is effective through February 3, 2025. Then, yesterday afternoon, President Trump temporary rescinded the Office of Management and Budget memo that instructed agencies on how to implement this freeze -- after I and many other Members of Congress and leaders across the country spoke out against it. This is a good step, and a strong reminder of what can happen when we speak out together.
But the executive orders are still in place, and we must stay vigilant against any additional attempts to block these funds.
The frozen funds are not Trump’s money to take away as he pleases – it belongs to the taxpayers. Congress directed the executive branch to disburse these funds, and the president cannot ignore Congress. These actions are proof of what Democrats have been warning for months: Trump is doing whatever it takes to get what he wants. Congress already authorized and appropriated these funds to help the American people, and it is unlawful and unconstitutional to revoke them.
Even a brief freeze could:
· Raise the price of food for vulnerable families;
· Spike the cost of rent and home loans;
· Defund the police officers and firefighters;
· Jeopardize access to healthcare for seniors and veterans;
· Block funding schools need to pay teachers and provide kids’ lunch programs;
· Cut funding for universities and student loans;
· Shutter small businesses;
· Hurt families with disabled children;
Unfortunately, none of these executive orders will lower costs for Hoosier families. The cost of eggs has jumped up, if you can find them on store shelves, and if they’re safe since food safety inspections were impacted by the orders – in the middle of a bird flu outbreak. The cost of coffee is now the highest ever, yet the president wants a trade war with Colombia – where we get most of our coffee. We need to focus on helping, not hurting families.
As my office continues to gather more information in a time of great uncertainty, this much is clear: This move from the Trump administration is blatantly unconstitutional. I will fight any and all attempts to undermine critical funding for the programs and services that support our communities.
I will continue to share more information when we have it, including our paths forward to fight this unlawful action. In the meantime, we are here for you and fighting for you in the face of this unconstitutional violation of Congress’ power of the purse.
If you anticipate being impacted by these orders, I want to hear from you. Please use this form to share information with my office regarding the ways you anticipate being impacted. |
Upcoming Events: My annual Youth Opportunities Fair will be held on March 12, 2025 from noon - 7pm at the Ivy Tech Culinary and Conference Center, 2820 N. Meridian St. If you’re offering employment, volunteer, or internship opportunities for young people in Indianapolis this summer, get in touch at YOF07@mail.house.gov
Congress On Your Corner is a chance to see how my office can help you! We're here to help with Medicare/Medicaid, Social Security, passports, and more. Stop by to learn how we can help you on February 25 from 10am - 12pm at the Office of the Lawrence Township Trustee, 4455 McCoy Street Indianapolis, IN 46226. Get in Touch: Team Carson is here to serve you – get in touch to find out how we can help you navigate a federal agency, access government benefits, or recognize a community member’s milestone. For updates throughout the week, don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. |