Donald Trump Withholds Federal Money From Schools: What To Know
NewsweekJUL 5
Trump Admin. Withholds $6B in School Funding Amid Review
Above: A Department of Education sign is displayed outside of their federal student aid office on May 18, 2025 in Washington, D.C. Image copyright: Kevin Carter/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This funding freeze represents necessary fiscal responsibility and government efficiency. These programs have been misused to promote illegal immigration advocacy and DEI initiatives that don't align with educational priorities. Education spending contributes to the ideological and economic malfeasance in this country, so this review is only right.
Democratic narrative
Withholding congressionally approved education funding is an illegal power grab that harms vulnerable students. These programs provide essential services like afterschool care for working families and English language support for immigrant children. The administration is punishing students to advance its political ideology while violating federal law.