Story perspectives

Trump Budget Slashes $28M, Threatens Native Hawaiian Programs

5/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s budget proposal cuts $28 million, includes a Justice Department memo deeming Native Hawaiian programs unconstitutional, proposes eliminating block grant in FY 2027, and faces pushback after Congress restored $35 million.
Senator Brian Schatz called the memo untested and warned the cuts will likely trigger litigation.
Rep. Ed Case and Danner said administration’s slow-walking grant processing creates a chilling effect and urged a litigation fund to defend Native Hawaiian programs.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump’s budget proposal cuts $28 million, includes a Justice Department memo deeming Native Hawaiian programs unconstitutional, proposes eliminating block grant in FY 2027, and faces pushback after Congress restored $35 million.
Senator Brian Schatz called the memo untested and warned the cuts will likely trigger litigation.
Rep. Ed Case and Danner said administration’s slow-walking grant processing creates a chilling effect and urged a litigation fund to defend Native Hawaiian programs.