Summary

Trump briefly froze $3 trillion in federal grants and loans, causing widespread disruption before rescinding the order amid legal challenges.

Critics argue the move, alongside recent freezes on DEI programs and foreign aid, is part of a broader effort to consolidate executive power.

Trump’s nominee for the Office of Management and Budget, Russ Vought, is expected to implement a more structured version of the freeze.

Trump’s actions, including incentivizing federal worker resignations, signal a shift toward oligarchic control.