Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser has taken steps to counter what he describes as a “revenge campaign” by the Trump administration against the state. In a recent press briefing, Weiser announced the expansion of an existing lawsuit regarding the relocation of U.S. Space Command from Colorado Springs to Alabama, which he alleges is an act of retribution.
Legal Actions Against Trump’s Administration
Weiser emphasized the need for Colorado to “fight back” against these actions, referring to a series of penalties aimed at the state. He criticized President Trump for his ongoing discontent with Colorado’s mail-in ballot system and the prosecution of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters, who is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence for election-related offences.
Federal Funding Withheld
Recent developments include three letters sent to Colorado Governor Jared Polis from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The letters stated that federal funding for programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Child Care and Development Fund is being withheld. The Trump administration has indicated these actions are meant to address alleged misuse of benefits intended for U.S. citizens.
- Colorado receives approximately $138 million annually for childcare.
- Annual TANF funding amounts to about $150 million, aiding roughly 15,000 families.
- The Social Services Block Grant provides about $27 million to support at-risk individuals.
Weiser stated that the recent withholding of funds is separate from the lawsuit against the Trump administration but will be incorporated into ongoing legal actions. The state is currently expected to provide detailed data about TANF and Social Services Block Grant recipients to federal regulators by January 20.
Broader Impacts of Federal Decisions
Weiser’s announcement follows a series of detrimental federal actions against Colorado, including Trump’s veto of a clean water pipeline funding bill. Additionally, disaster relief requests related to wildfires and flooding in northwestern and southwestern Colorado have been denied.
Federal cuts have also targeted clean energy initiatives in the state. Colorado previously joined 22 other states in a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the cancellation of $7 billion in grants intended to expand solar access for low-income families.
Future Legal Actions
Weiser confirmed that Colorado will pursue legal action against the recent federal orders affecting coal-fired power plants. He characterized the Trump administration’s management of energy issues as illegal and counterproductive.
Trump has openly criticized Governor Polis, labeling him a “scumbag” and suggesting punitive measures for the state, particularly in relation to Peters’ incarceration. Despite a federal pardon for Peters, state laws prevent her release, thus complicating the situation further.
As this legal battle unfolds, Weiser reiterated Colorado’s commitment to safeguard its interests against perceived injustices from the federal government.
