A federal judge heard arguments Wednesday in a major case challenging the Trump administration’s executive order that strips labor rights from employees in over a dozen federal agencies deemed focused on national security.
The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) argues the order is a pretext to weaken federal unions and punish political opposition, citing a White House fact sheet that claims unions have “declared war on President Trump’s agenda.”
Judge Paul L. Friedman appeared sympathetic to the union, grilling the Department of Justice (DOJ) over the order’s intent. He questioned whether the administration was targeting only unions that opposed Trump, asking, “How else can you read what he’s done?”
The DOJ defended the move, claiming it falls under the president’s constitutional authority to protect national security. The administration also argued that the case should be handled by the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) — not the courts.
Friedman, however, questioned the FLRA’s effectiveness and expressed concern over the immediate impact on the union, which claims it’s losing over $2 million monthly and risks losing two-thirds of its members.
“They’re taking away the very reason people pay dues to us,” the NTEU’s attorney said.
The judge did not issue a ruling but indicated he might allow parts of the order to stand for agencies directly tied to national security, while blocking others. He also waived the union’s bond requirement and ended joint status reports between the parties.
A decision on whether to block the order is expected soon.