Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Ban On DEI Programs

A federal judge has largely blocked sweeping executive orders from President Donald Trump that sought to end government support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, Associated Press (AP) reporters Lea Skene and Lindsay Whitehurst wrote.

Judge Abelson found that the orders likely violate constitutional rights, including free speech protections.

U.S. District Judge Adam Abelson in Baltimore granted a preliminary injunction preventing the administration from terminating or altering federal contracts deemed equity-related.

Abelson found that the orders likely violate constitutional rights, including free speech protections.

“What’s happening is an overcorrection and a rollback of DEI commitments,” attorney Aleshadye Getachew said during a nearly three-hour hearing.

Trump signed an executive order on his first day in office directing federal agencies to terminate all “equity-related” grants or contracts. He later signed a follow-up order requiring federal contractors to certify that they do not promote DEI.

The plaintiffs—including the city of Baltimore and higher education organizations—sued the Trump administration earlier this month, arguing that the executive orders are unconstitutional and represent a blatant overreach of presidential authority.

They also claim the directives have a chilling effect on free speech.