Republican-Appointed Judge Hands Donald Trump a Legal Blow
Newsweek14 hrs
Judge Rules Trump NIH Grant Cuts Illegal, Orders Restoration
Above: NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya speaks with aide before Senate hearing on June 10, 2025. Image copyright: Win McNamee/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This ruling represents further judicial overreach by an activist judge who prioritizes woke ideology over constitutional governance. The Trump administration rightfully ended taxpayer funding for politically motivated research that advances divisive DEI agendas rather than legitimate scientific inquiry. These cuts were necessary to redirect resources toward research that benefits all Americans instead of promoting discriminatory programs based on race and gender identity.
Democratic narrative
Young's decision correctly identifies blatant discrimination against vulnerable communities whose health research was systematically targeted for elimination. The administration's arbitrary cuts to billions in critical medical research — including studies on cancer, HIV, and maternal health — represent an unprecedented assault on scientific integrity and public health. This ruling protects essential research that saves lives and advances medical knowledge for marginalized populations.