President Trump's executive orders could hurt Austin groups, Doggett says | FOX 7 Austin

President Trump's executive orders could hurt Austin groups, Doggett says

President Trump's budget office is rescinding a memo that seemed to freeze spending on federal grants. It sparked widespread confusion and legal challenges across the country.

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Would Trump's order disrupt services in Austin?

The backstory:

Since taking office on January 20, President Donald Trump has issued more than 300 executive orders. 

On Wednesday, Congressman Lloyd Doggett, (D) Austin, said the president exceeded his authority with his most recent action.

"We need to be pushing back at every level, both legislatively through the court system and also engaging the public," said Congressman Doggett.

A federal judge, on Tuesday, put a hold on an order to pause federal loans, grants and other financial assistance. 

There were concerns that organizations like Meals on Wheels would face a disruption in service. A spokesperson for Meals on Wheels Central Texas said there was no disruption because of the initial executive order. The board has set aside local funds in case a pause in federal resources takes place later. 

Doggett also claimed research projects at the University of Texas would have been stalled by Trump’s order.

"I know there are many people throughout Texas who supported President Trump, but I believe many of them will be asking, is this what I voted for? To takeaway food from those who are hungry to not provide the resources that our schools and our universities do," said Congressman Doggett.

State officials speak out

Congressman Lloyd Doggett, (D) Austin

What they're saying:

Senate Majority Leader John Thune offered an explanation for the reversal.

"They are clarifying it and, I think, it is not unusual for an administration to pause funding and take a hard look," said the Republican from South Dakota.

Congressman Doggett was also critical of President Trump's return to work order. Federal employees are being offered a buy out if they resign by Feb. 6.

"I want efficiency in our government as much as anyone else. And there are places where we can have more efficient operations. But I want public servants, and that's what most of our government employees are not MAGA servants. The idea that this president, without any legal authority, can start offering money to federal employees to quit their jobs, take the money and run because of their fear of this new administration is truly outrageous.," said Congressman Doggett.

The other side:

President Trump, on Wednesday, was at a ceremony where he signed the Laken Riley Act. It’s the first major bill sent to him since taking office.

"With today's action, her name will also live forever in the laws of our country," said President Trump.

The president did not mention his decision to rescind the directive on pausing federal programs. 

A court hearing is scheduled for Monday. 

Officials with the White House issued a statement saying the president did not rescind an order, calling reports of that a hoax.

The statement read, "No such thing took place. Instead, a memo from the Office of Management and Budget was rescinded in an effort to alleviate confusion — and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed President Trump’s order remains "in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented" as the administration works to root out waste, fraud, and abuse."

The Source: Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin's Rudy Koski

Texas PoliticsDonald J. TrumpAustin