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Trump uses rare 'pocket' authority to cancel nearly $1bn in Congress-approved funding for migrants and race programmes

From the Newshound archive · first published 26 September 2026 · last updated 27 September 2026.

Trump uses rare 'pocket' authority to cancel nearly $1bn in Congress-approved funding for migrants and race programmes

President Trump has invoked a rarely-used presidential power to claw back nearly $1 billion in spending that Congress had already approved, targeting funds earmarked for illegal immigrants and race-focused programmes. The move, known as a 'pocket' rescission, bypasses the usual legislative process and represents one of the most aggressive uses of executive budget authority in recent memory. Democrats are expected to challenge the action as an unconstitutional power grab.

Trump's administration is seeking to withhold around $800 million to $1 billion in congressionally approved funds using the rescission mechanism.

The funds targeted include spending on programmes for illegal immigrants and what the White House describes as race-focused initiatives.

Critics warn the move tests the limits of presidential power over the public purse — an authority the Constitution reserves for Congress.

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