DOE Exposed: Clean-Energy Grants Slashed to Punish Progressive States
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A federal court filing reveals the Energy Department deliberately targeted clean-energy grants in states that supported Kamala Harris, weaponizing public funds against Democratic strongholds and drawing outrage from Democratic lawmakers.
The U.S. Energy Department has openly admitted in a July 15 court filing to a blatant act of political retribution: it recommended terminating over 600 clean-energy grants in states that backed Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and are represented by Democratic senators. This calculated move, which undermines the fight against climate change, was followed by the Office of Management and Budget's cancellation of 284 of those grants in October 2025, directly sabotaging progress in states leading the clean-energy transition.
The court filing, part of a class-action lawsuit brought by University of California researchers, exposes the department’s willingness to prioritize partisan interests over the public good. The department admits that the inclusion of grants in the October notice was based solely on the political identity of the recipient’s state, targeting so-called Blue States for their commitment to progressive values and climate action.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned the move as “unprecedented Trumpism,” warning that such authoritarian tactics must not become normalized in American governance. Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin called it a “deep betrayal of America,” demanding immediate restoration of funds to the affected states. Representatives Marcy Kaptur and Senator Patty Murray, both champions for working families, decried the decision as a “corrupt abuse of power” that endangers jobs, families, and the planet.
This case is the latest in a series of attacks on Democratic-led states, following reports that the administration sought to withhold federal funding for social services and selectively distribute disaster aid. The White House, Energy Department, Office of Management and Budget, and Justice Department have all refused to comment, further highlighting their disregard for transparency and democratic norms.