Congressman García’s Statement on Trump’s Illegal Freeze of Federal Grants and Loans

CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement after the Trump administration announced it would shut down federal funding and grants across the nation:

"The decision to freeze critical federal resources could affect funding for nonprofits, universities, and state and local government grants.  It is direct political extortion, and an unconstitutional abuse of power that endangers the health and well-being of millions of Americans. This is not governance; this is hostage-taking policy, targeting states like Illinois to score political points and enforce an extreme, divisive agenda.

“Let me be absolutely clear: this decision will affect low-income families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities. This administration is weaponizing federal funding to punish states that refuse to bow to its authoritarian whims. This is inhumane and cruel in every aspect.

“This move is not only a betrayal to the American people, it is also illegal. Congress has already approved these funds, and now Trump is threatening to withhold them if they do not align with his partisan agenda. 

“If this administration believes it can coerce us into abandoning our values and divide the working class, it is mistaken. I expect this to be fought in court, we will challenge this in Congress, and in the court of public opinion. My constituents elected me to protect their rights and their futures, and I will not be intimidated by this administration’s attempts to tear apart the social safety net while benefiting the wealthy.”

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