Trump’s Return to the Oval Office Ignites a Flurry of Legal Challenges
Executive Order Spree Sparks Lawsuits
Since his re-inauguration on January 20, President Donald Trump has issued a series of executive orders, signaling a shift in federal policies. However, his actions have drawn the ire of Democratic politicians and activists, leading to a surge in lawsuits against the Trump administration.
Fox News Digital has identified at least 49 lawsuits filed against Trump and his administration since his return to office. The plaintiffs include a range of entities, including Democratic elected officials, labor unions, and left-wing advocacy groups.
Democratic Resistance to Trump’s Policies
Democratic leaders have vehemently opposed Trump’s policies, particularly the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The agency’s mission to scrutinize federal agencies and slash government spending has drawn the ire of Democrats, who view it as an attack on essential services.
"We are going to keep focus on the need to look out for everyday New Yorkers and everyday Americans who are under assault by an extreme MAGA Republican agenda," said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
James Leads the Charge
New York Attorney General Leitita James has been a vocal critic of Trump since his first term. She has vowed to pursue legal action against the Trump administration, echoing her previous efforts during Trump’s first term.
James has filed numerous lawsuits against Trump, including a civil fraud suit in 2022 that resulted in a $454 million judgment against him. She has also led a coalition of state attorneys general in suing the federal government over DOGE’s access to Treasury Department systems.
Labor Unions Join the Fight
Labor unions that previously sued the Trump administration are also back in court. The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has filed suit over DOGE’s access to private information at the Education and Treasury departments, while the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has sued the administration over DOGE and federal employment policies.
"We wouldn’t bring so many lawsuits if they wouldn’t break the law so often," said Andrew Huddleston, AFGE’s director of communications.
Other Lawsuits Target Transgender Rights, FBI Investigators
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which filed over 400 lawsuits against Trump’s first administration, has sued the second Trump administration over an executive order that prevents transgender individuals from changing their passports to reflect their gender identity.
The State Democracy Defenders Fund has filed a lawsuit on behalf of FBI agents who investigated Trump-related cases, seeking to block the DOJ from releasing their names. The group was previously involved in other Trump-related cases.
Trump Decries ‘Lawfare’
Trump has repeatedly criticized the lawsuits against him as "lawfare," accusing his opponents of weaponizing the justice system for political purposes. He has specifically targeted James, Judge Juan Merchan, and other individuals involved in legal proceedings against him.
"They’re playing with the courts… It’s called lawfare. It’s called weaponization of justice," Trump said in a press conference after his election win.
Legal Battles Ahead
The surge in lawsuits against the Trump administration sets the stage for numerous legal battles in the coming months and years. The outcome of these cases will likely have a significant impact on the implementation of Trump’s policies and the broader political landscape in the United States.
