Somerville Has Its First Day In Court Against Trump Admin

SOMERVILLE, MA — The city had its first hearing in federal court Thursday regarding its federal injunction against President Donald Trump and his administration.

Along with the city of Chelsea, Somerville filed the injunction in June after the Department of Homeland Security told dozens of Massachusetts communities that they must adhere to their commands or face consequences. One part of those consequences is a block of millions in federal funding. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne said the preliminary hearing was an important step for the city in its fight.

“I will continue to stand up for our community — for our rights, our safety, and our shared wellbeing,” Ballantyne said in a statement. “When critical funding is at risk by unlawful means, it’s not just about dollars — it’s about the services, support, and the future our residents deserve – as well as the fundamental, constitutional rights of all.”

In February, the city filed a lawsuit against Trump saying that the mandates violate Constitutional rights. Trump has issued three Executive Orders since his inauguration that threaten to cut off funding to sanctuary cities.

The city is represented by Lawyers for Civil Rights.