The Chief Justice, led by Secretary John G. Roberts from President Trump’s lawyer on Wednesday, maintains the judge’s order calling for the government to take control of most of the government.
Last week, Roberts suspended the dispute in response to a late appeal from Trump’s lawyers.
After reviewing the matter for several days, the court sent the matter back to a federal judge with a majority of five or four to continue. The tone of the order was cautious and tentative.
Referring to US District Judge Amir Ali, the court said, “We should fully consider the feasibility of the compliance timeline and clarify what obligations the government must fulfill to ensure compliance with the temporary restraining order.”
The issue involves payments to nonprofits or private contractors who work abroad funded and approved by Congress.
Shortly after taking office, Trump officials frozen those payments, including those completed jobs.
Joining the Supreme Court judges were Sonia Sotomayor judges Elena Kagan, Amy Connie Barrett and Ketanji Brown Jackson.
Judge Samuel A. Alito filed angry opposition against the four conservatives.
“Do district court judges who are likely to lack jurisdiction have the power to force the US government to pay $2 billion in taxpayer dollars (and likely lose it forever) and have unchecked powers? The answer to that question should be “no,” but the majority of the courts believe it is clearly the case. I’m stubborn,” he wrote.
“Today, courts are making the most unfortunate mistake of rewarding judicial law actions and imposing a $2 billion penalty on American taxpayers.”
Justice Clarence Thomas, Neil M. Golsch and Judges Brett M. Kavanaugh joined his opposition.
