Trump’s recent memo order pausing or “freezing” federal grant spending (except for Social Security, Medicare and direct payments to individuals) threatens many valuable and ongoing federal grant programs. The target seems to be spending on diversity, equity and inclusion, “green initiatives” and anything that sounds “woke.” That’s a phrase referring positively or pejoratively to all manner of generally non-Republican causes and interests. Truly, Trump’s action throws the baby out with the bathwater. It’s also unconstitutional.

Former President Richard Nixon tried to do the same thing in the 1970s regarding environmental funding. It’s illegal and was found to be so at the time. However, Trump is endeavoring to do so writ large, which is fantastic. Rather than issue fiats, Trump should ask the U.S. Congress to stop any such spending within 45 days under the 1974 Budget and Impoundment Act, which is the law as well. Congress doesn’t have to agree. Of course, Trump’s party now controls both houses of Congress.

A federal judge temporarily halted Trump’s order for those programs funded through the beginning of his order via “open grants.” These are grants where a call for........

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