A federal judge has temporarily blocked portions of former President Trump's executive orders aimed at limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Judge Adam Abelson, a Biden appointee to the U.S. District Court in Baltimore, issued a preliminary injunction against sections of the orders that would halt federal funding for DEI initiatives and allow the cancellation of related contracts. Judge Abelson suggested these sections likely infringe upon constitutional rights, particularly free speech, stating that the vague and threatening nature of the executive orders could stifle open support for DEI among government contractors.

The legal challenge was brought by a coalition including the city of Baltimore, higher education diversity officer associations, academic groups, and restaurant worker representatives. They contend the executive orders constitute presidential overreach, violate free speech, and create uncertainty for organizations reliant on federal funding. Their argument centers on the assertion that the orders usurp Congressional authority and impose the former president's personal views. They maintain that the president lacks such sweeping powers.

The Trump administration countered that the intent was to eliminate only those DEI programs that contravene federal civil rights laws. They argued that the orders represent a necessary course correction against excessive DEI initiatives. A separate lawsuit challenging the executive orders was also filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and Lambda Legal on behalf of several non-profit organizations.

White House spokesman Harrison Fields characterized the lawsuits as an extension of resistance from the left, affirming the administration's readiness to defend the executive orders in court. He asserted that opponents could either oppose the purported will of the people or collaborate with the former president on his agenda.