This is an insane ruling!
The Trump administration is vigorously opposing a recent federal court decision that ordered the reinstatement of thousands of federal employees who had been terminated last month. The White House has sharply criticized the ruling, calling it “absurd” and a violation of the Constitution.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to U.S. District Judge William Alsup’s decision, saying, “A single judge is attempting to overstep his authority and undermine the power of the Executive Branch.” Leavitt emphasized that the President holds the responsibility to manage federal employment decisions and that district court judges should not have the power to block these actions. “If any judge believes they can wield the power of the President, they should consider running for the office themselves,” she added.
Judge Alsup, who was appointed by former President Bill Clinton, ruled that several federal agencies—including the Departments of Veterans Affairs, Defense, Energy, and others—must immediately offer reinstatement to employees terminated in February. The judge’s ruling stated that the mass layoffs violated federal laws governing procedures for employee reductions, known as “Reduction in Force” guidelines.
Alsup acknowledged that the government could reduce its workforce but emphasized that these actions must follow the appropriate legal process. “This doesn’t mean an administration can’t make workforce cuts,” Alsup stated. “But it must be done in full compliance with the law.”
The decision came after a lawsuit was filed by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and other unions, which argued that the terminations of probationary employees, who had been with the government for less than a year, were unlawful.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders celebrated the court’s ruling, calling it a major victory for workers and a clear message that public employees cannot be fired without cause. “This ruling strengthens the protections for workers across the country,” Saunders said.
The White House swiftly announced its intention to appeal the decision, stating that it would fight against what it sees as an overreach by the judiciary. “The Trump administration will immediately take steps to challenge this unconstitutional decision and defend the President’s authority,” Leavitt concluded.