Story perspectives

Democrats Accuse White House of Blocking $5B Transit Grants

8/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Democratic lawmakers accused the Federal Transit Administration and the White House budget office of blocking Grants.
Forty-two members sent a letter demanding the agencies advance projects, citing Budget director Russell Vought’s claim it protects $5 billion from diversity, equity and inclusion (D.E.I.) principles.
Judges have blocked cuts to funding for the Gateway Tunnel, Second Avenue Subway and Chicago Red Line extension, leaving dozens seeking money for transit projects.

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Story summary

Democratic lawmakers accused the Federal Transit Administration and the White House budget office of blocking Grants.
Forty-two members sent a letter demanding the agencies advance projects, citing Budget director Russell Vought’s claim it protects $5 billion from diversity, equity and inclusion (D.E.I.) principles.
Judges have blocked cuts to funding for the Gateway Tunnel, Second Avenue Subway and Chicago Red Line extension, leaving dozens seeking money for transit projects.