Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago has aligned itself with a coalition of numerous cities, counties, union organizations, and non-profit groups to challenge the Trump Administration’s recent federal government reorganization plan. The coalition argues that the President lacks the authority to significantly modify federal agencies without Congress's approval, viewing these actions as a violation of the separation of powers.

Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the city’s position, stating, "I am proud that Chicago is taking this stand with cities, counties, and workers from across the country. The Trump Administration's plan to gut the federal government threatens our way of life and would significantly impact our ability to keep residents and communities safe and healthy."

The legal case seeks judicial intervention to halt the implementation of Executive Order 14210, which President Trump issued to restructure the federal workforce through extensive layoffs and agency reorganization. The coalition argues that the President does not have the constitutional authority for such unilateral actions.

The restructuring has reportedly begun affecting Chicago's city services, where federal agencies contribute substantially to emergency response, public safety, environmental protection, and public health. Officials warn of the potential loss of critical resources needed to safeguard city residents.

Some specific impacts cited include the potential elimination of the National Weather Service, vital for event planning and emergency responses during severe weather, and anticipated reductions in FEMA's disaster response capacity. The Environmental Protection Agency's staff cuts could impair efforts to remediate contaminated sites in the city. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reductions are said to threaten the Chicago Department of Public Health’s ability to manage health crises effectively.

Mary B. Richardson-Lowry, Corporation Counsel, asserted, "The Trump Administration’s attempt to dismantle essential government functions represents an unprecedented overreach by the executive branch. These actions threaten public safety and critical services our residents rely on."

Deputy Corporation Counsel Stephen J. Kane highlighted the broader implications, stating that the restructuring represents an effort to cut essential services that local governments depend on. This lawsuit, he said, underscores the city's commitment to protecting residents from these federal actions.

Apart from Chicago, the coalition includes organizations and local governments such as the American Federation of Government Employees, Service Employees International Union, American Public Health Association, and several others across various states. The case, AFGE v. Trump, was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.