NY anti-terror funds: Trump reverses counterterrorism cuts; $187 mn to be restored after GOP outcry

Donald Trump (Pic: AP)

The Trump administration has reversed cuts to counterterrorism funding for New York, US President Donald Trump announced in a post on Friday. “I am pleased to advise that I reversed the cuts made to Homeland Security and Counterterrorism for New York City and State. It was my Honor to do so,” Trump said in a Truth Social. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), “While FEMA’s initial allocation fully met program requirements, after consultation with federal partners and in recognition of our critical security partnership with New York, FEMA is providing access to $136 million, bringing the State Homeland Security funding to $187 million to ensure it has the resources needed to counter and combat evolving threats”, reported CNN. New York Governor Kathy Hochul welcomed the reversal and credited Trump for restoring the funds. Writing on X, the Democratic leader said, “ I’m glad that @POTUS heard our call to reverse these cuts. That means $187 million for the NYPD, FDNY & first responders across the state that keep New Yorkers safe.” Hochul had earlier warned DHS Secretary Kristi Noem that slashing 86% of the state’s homeland security funding “serves only to make not just New York but all of America more vulnerable to terrorist attacks.” A federal judge also raised similar concerns on Wednesday, citing the 9/11 attacks and other threats, and blocked the diversion or withdrawal of $34 million in funding meant to protect New York’s transportation system, the Associated Press reported. The funding reversal comes amid broader tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic-led states over federal spending. While the counterterrorism cuts predated the ongoing government shutdown, the administration has threatened New York and other blue states with consequences if the shutdown persists. White House budget chief Russell Vought confirmed on Wednesday that funding for two major New York City construction projects—the Hudson Tunnel Project and the Second Avenue Subway—has been paused due to the shutdown.