NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 2026 — A federal judge appointed by President Joe Biden has drawn sharp criticism from conservative groups after temporarily halting the Trump administration’s move to cut billions of dollars in federal funding for social welfare programs in five Democratic-led states.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, who serves on the Southern District of New York, issued a temporary restraining order last week blocking the administration’s decision to freeze roughly $10 billion earmarked for child care and social service programs in California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York.
The ruling prevents the federal government from withholding funds from programs including the Child Care and Development Fund, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Social Services Block Grants while the court considers a broader legal challenge brought by the states.
In his order, Subramanian said the states had raised serious questions about whether the executive branch has the authority to unilaterally block funds that were approved and appropriated by Congress. The judge said an immediate freeze could cause irreparable harm by disrupting child care services and assistance for low-income families.
The Trump administration had argued that the funding pause was necessary due to concerns that some states were using federal money to provide benefits to undocumented immigrants. State attorneys general countered that the administration had offered no clear evidence to support those claims and accused federal officials of selectively targeting Democratic-led states.
The ruling has made Subramanian a lightning rod for criticism among supporters of President Donald Trump, with several MAGA-aligned commentators accusing the judge of political bias and judicial overreach. The backlash has played out largely on social media, where Subramanian’s background and appointment have been openly questioned.
Supporters of the decision, however, say the judge acted within his constitutional role by enforcing Congress’ power of the purse and ensuring that federal agencies follow the law. Legal experts note that temporary restraining orders are designed to preserve the status quo while courts examine complex disputes.
Subramanian’s order is limited in scope and duration, keeping the funds flowing for now as the case proceeds. Further hearings are expected to determine whether a longer-term injunction will be granted or whether the administration can revive its effort to withhold the money.
Cover photo credit: Wikipedia.
