White House orders review of federal grants, prompting backlash

The Office of Management and Budget has ordered federal agencies to review their grant and loan programs to ensure they align with President Donald Trump’s priorities, including executive orders that eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

Democrats argue that the funding is not optional and was mandated by Congress.

“No matter how much he may believe he does, the president does not have the authority to ignore the law,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, (D-N.Y.)

On Tuesday, Democrats vowed to fight the order, joined by advocacy groups representing nonprofits and small businesses, which sued the administration. The lawsuit argues that the funding freeze would “create unequivocal, imminent and serious harm.”

“This is what a king does. This is not how a democracy works. One man does not decide how taxpayers' money is spent,” said Sen. Chris Murphy, (D-Conn.)

The White House responded by accusing critics of misrepresenting the order.

“So let me provide the certainty and the clarity that all of you need. This is not a blanket pause on federal assistance and grant programs from the Trump administration,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Leavitt emphasized that the funding pause would not affect Social Security or any programs providing direct benefits to individuals. However, she said it would halt federal assistance that conflicts with Trump’s executive actions.

“It means no more funding for illegal DEI programs, it means no more funding for the Green New 'Scam' that has cost American taxpayers tens of billions of dollars,” Leavitt said.

The review has raised concerns over potential impacts on housing assistance programs, anti-poverty grants and infrastructure funding.

“This is funding that communities are expecting, and this memo is creating chaos and confusion about whether these resources will be available to them,” said Sen. Patty Murray, (D-Wash).

The offices of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation have been fielding calls from concerned constituents seeking answers about how the funding review will affect them and which programs may be at risk.