A federal judge further halts Trump's radical transformation of government

A federal judge has placed an indefinite hold on President Trump's executive order aimed at restructuring the federal government. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Illston was in response to a lawsuit from a coalition of labor unions, nonprofits, and local governments, which argued that the president did not have the authority to execute such significant changes without Congressional consent. Judge Illston emphasized the necessity of partnership with Congress for substantial reorganization efforts, aligning with historical precedent set by previous presidents who sought legislative approval for similar actions. The Trump administration plans to appeal the decision.

Agencies may not conduct large-scale reorganizations and reductions in force in blatant disregard of Congress's mandates, and a President may not initiate large-scale executive branch reorganization without partnering with Congress.

Over the last century, nine presidents have sought and obtained authority from Congress to reorganize the executive branch; others have sought approval but were not granted it.

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