Summary
A federal judge in Rhode Island ordered the Trump administration to unfreeze federal funding, accusing it of violating a previous court ruling.
The lawsuit, filed by 22 states and D.C., argues the freeze is unconstitutional and causing harm. Trump, JD Vance, and Elon Musk have suggested defying court orders.
The administration appealed the ruling, while legal experts warn officials like the Treasury Secretary could face contempt charges if they ignore it.
The case tests executive power limits and judicial authority.
That’s the trick though. Contempt of court isn’t the same as breaking a law and doesn’t have the same restrictions. For example, a person can be held in jail for contempt indefinitely without trial until the person yields to the demand of the judge. This sometimes happens to people who refuse to pay child support that the courts know they can afford.