A federal judge, William Orrick, has ruled that the Trump administration cannot withhold federal funds from cities and counties with “sanctuary” policies that limit cooperation with US immigration officials. The judge’s temporary injunction was sought by San Francisco, Santa Clara county, and other municipalities in response to portions of Donald Trump’s executive orders being deemed unconstitutional.

Judge Orrick highlighted that the threat of withholding funding causes irreparable harm to these cities and counties by creating budgetary uncertainty, depriving them of constitutional rights, and undermining trust with the communities they serve. The judge’s order prohibits the federal government from taking any action to withhold or condition federal funds, and the Trump administration must notify all federal departments and agencies of this ruling by Monday.

Critics argue that the administration’s orders represent overreach and an attempt to force cities into participating in what they describe as “reckless and illegal mass deportation efforts.” San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu stated that the administration is unlawfully asserting power it does not possess, aiming to pressure local officials by threatening to withhold federal funds that support essential services like the police department, homelessness initiatives, and public health systems.

This ruling follows a history of legal challenges against similar actions taken by the Trump administration, with past court decisions also finding such attempts to be beyond the president’s authority. The impacted cities and counties have welcomed the judge’s decision, viewing it as a validation of their ability to fulfill their missions and maintain trust within their communities amid ongoing federal pressures.