Trump asks the Supreme Court to clear the way for federal downsizing plans

The Trump administration is once again asking the Supreme Court to allow its plans to downsize the federal workforce. This comes after an appeals court refused to block a lower court's order that halted the cuts. A federal judge had previously ruled that the administration needs congressional approval for such significant reductions. The administration's initial appeal to the Supreme Court was withdrawn for technical reasons. The current filing argues that federal judges have overstepped their authority by questioning the President's executive power over personnel decisions. The downsizing efforts, spearheaded by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and formerly led by Elon Musk, have already resulted in tens of thousands of federal workers being fired, resigning, or placed on leave. The judge's order affects numerous federal agencies, including the Departments of Agriculture, Energy, Labor, State, Treasury, and Veterans Affairs, as well as the EPA and Social Security Administration. The Supreme Court has set a deadline for responses from the involved unions and cities. This legal battle is part of a larger effort by the administration to remake the federal government, with voters having given Trump a mandate for such changes.