Judge blocks Trump’s orders to dismantle the Education Department and fire employees
Judge Blocks Trump’s Orders to Dismantle Education Department and Fire Federal Workers
Washington, D.C. — May 2025
A federal judge has halted former President Donald Trump’s latest executive orders targeting the U.S. Department of Education and federal employees. The ruling blocks his attempt to dismantle the department and fire government workers labeled as “disloyal.”
Background
Trump recently re-entered the political spotlight with aggressive new policies. Among them were two controversial orders. One called for dismantling the Department of Education. The other sought to revive a version of “Schedule F,” a policy allowing the firing of federal workers who don’t align with a president’s views.
Trump called the changes necessary to “drain the swamp.” Critics said they threatened democracy and ignored the law.
The Ruling
U.S. District Judge Meredith Langston issued the injunction on Thursday. She said the orders posed a threat to public services and violated key legal principles.
“No president can dissolve a federal agency without Congress,” she wrote in her 46-page ruling. “Firing civil servants based on loyalty tests raises serious constitutional concerns.”
The judge’s decision pauses the orders while lawsuits against them continue.
Reactions
Trump’s team quickly criticized the ruling. Jeffrey Clark, a former Justice Department official and Trump ally, called it “judicial overreach.”
“This proves the swamp is protecting itself,” Clark said at a press conference. “President Trump will keep fighting for the American people.”
Opponents of the orders praised the decision. Education groups and civil service unions called it a major victory.
“The Department of Education protects our children,” said Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association. “Shutting it down would hurt students, especially those in underserved communities.”
Legal and Political Impact
Legal experts said the ruling reinforces limits on presidential power. Dr. Rachel Sandoval, a law professor at Georgetown University, explained its significance.
“This is a key moment for checks and balances,” she said. “The courts are reminding everyone that the president must follow the law.”
Politically, the ruling could fuel both sides. Trump’s supporters may see it as more proof of a biased system. His critics see it as a necessary defense of democratic norms.
What’s Next
The Justice Department plans to defend the injunction in court. Trump’s legal team is also preparing an appeal. If the case continues, it could reach the Supreme Court.
For now, the Department of Education will continue its work. Federal employees will not face mass firings under Schedule F.
Conclusion
This ruling is a major setback for Trump’s policy plans. It also highlights a broader conflict over the limits of presidential power. As Trump eyes a stronger political comeback, the legal and constitutional battles are far from over.
