ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown provided details on the state’s legal challenges against the Trump administration, highlighting his concerns over what he perceives as executive overreach. These lawsuits underscore the continuing tensions between state and federal policies, particularly in regards to personnel management and funding.
Recently, Maryland joined a coalition seeking a court order to halt the broad dismissal of federal employees, a move Brown criticized as legally overreaching. He argued the administration bypassed mandated procedures such as offering 60 days notice— a requirement designed to cushion communities against sudden economic impacts.
“The layoff of a significant number of federal workers without due notice not only disrupts communities but also burdens state resources as we strive to manage increased unemployment aid demands,” Brown said, emphasizing the financial strain on state unemployment resources. He raised questions about the rationale for these terminations, suggesting numerous employees had previously received positive evaluations only to be abruptly dismissed.
Brown pointed out the short time frame — approximately three months since the new administration took office — as insufficient for a thorough review process that would justify the large-scale employee terminations purportedly occurring. Such actions, according to Brown, have unnecessarily escalated state expenses and complicated the allocation of unemployment benefits.
The administration’s current course has propelled Maryland into several high-stakes lawsuits, including one against the Office of Personnel Management concerning its directives that risk suspending federal funding for various programs and projects. Brown fears these disputes may ascend to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Despite a growing disillusionment with the Supreme Court among some Democrats nationally, Brown remains optimistic about the Court’s commitment to foundational legal principles. “Although the Supreme Court leans conservative, I believe it continues to uphold the core values held by most Americans,” he remarked during an interview. He stressed his sustained confidence in the judiciary, regardless of varying case outcomes.
Coordination with other Democratic attorneys general has been key, Brown indicated, as they collectively prepare for possible further contentious policy shifts under President Trump. In fact, some litigation, like challenges to the president’s attempts to end birthright citizenship, was mobilized soon after his inauguration.
Looking forward, Brown anticipates the potential for additional legal action given the president’s prior campaign promises and early executive decisions, which he views as detrimental to Maryland citizens.
“Observing the president’s tactics and campaign declarations, it is prudent to prepare for more executive actions that may infringe on individual rights or withhold crucial funding from communities and governmental bodies,” he stated.
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