New York City plans to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the revocation of over $80 million in FEMA funding intended for shelters housing illegal immigrants. The city’s Law Department, led by counsel Mureil Goode-Trufant, sent a letter to city Comptroller Brad Lander, stating that legal action would be initiated by February 21, 2025. However, this move appears to be made without Mayor Eric Adams’ full support, as Adams has shown a willingness to work with the Trump administration.

The dispute began when the Trump administration, backed by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), pulled FEMA funds after alleging that New York City was using the money to house migrants in luxury hotels. Comptroller Lander, who is running against Adams in the upcoming Democratic primary, criticized the mayor for not taking swift action and argued that recovering the funds was crucial to prevent the city from becoming a target for future administrations.

Lander accused Musk of illegally seizing federal funds from New York and labeled the action as “highway robbery.” The funds were part of a federal grant to address the migrant crisis, but the city insists that the money was used responsibly for housing, security, food, and services. The situation has sparked political tension, with some questioning whether Adams’ recent legal relief from corruption charges influenced his approach to the Trump administration.