Story perspectives

Supreme Court Rules Against Trump on Federal Layoffs

12/20/2025

Center

Supreme Court Backs Judges

The Supreme Court sided with immigration judges against the U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, questioning the legality of firings that affect federal workers.
A federal judge ordered layoffs from the government shutdown rescinded, affecting about 700 employees.
Since January 2025, 317,000 federal workers have left the Trump administration.
Many former employees, especially in diversity roles, are in lawsuits alleging discrimination based on political beliefs and identity.

Left

Trump Revokes Affirmative Action

U.S. President Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2025, as unemployment rose to 4.6% and Black unemployment reached 8.3%.
The rise stems in part from mass firings of federal employees, disproportionately affecting Black workers.
The Trump administration revoked affirmative action policies, limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) will no longer enforce disparate impact liability under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

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Supreme Court Backs Judges

The Supreme Court sided with immigration judges against the U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, questioning the legality of firings that affect federal workers.
A federal judge ordered layoffs from the government shutdown rescinded, affecting about 700 employees.
Since January 2025, 317,000 federal workers have left the Trump administration.
Many former employees, especially in diversity roles, are in lawsuits alleging discrimination based on political beliefs and identity.

1 / 2