Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
The Trump administration has reversed significant cuts to counterterrorism funding for New York, following President Donald Trump’s direct intervention after he reportedly expressed anger over the initial reductions. The move restores $136 million, bringing the total State Homeland Security funding for New York to $187 million.
Presidential Intervention
President Trump confirmed the reversal in a Truth Social post on Friday, stating, “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.” A person familiar with the situation indicated that Trump was only recently informed of the cuts, which had generated strong opposition from state leaders, and reacted with anger, ordering their immediate reversal.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the action, with a spokesperson explaining that while FEMA’s initial allocation met program requirements, the agency is now providing access to an additional $136 million. This decision was made “after consultation with federal partners and in recognition of our critical security partnership with New York,” aiming to “ensure it has the resources needed to counter and combat evolving threats,” the spokesperson added.
New York’s Response
New York Governor Kathy Hochul lauded the reversal on X, crediting President Trump for the change. “From the moment @Sec_Noem tried to defund our police and counterterrorism programs, we stood up and fought back. I’m glad that @POTUS heard our call to reverse these cuts,” Governor Hochul wrote.
She further specified that the funding would provide “$187 million for the NYPD, FDNY & first responders across the state that keep New Yorkers safe.” The initial cuts had been met with strong pushback from state leaders, including Governor Hochul, prior to the President’s intervention.
Funding for Security
The restored funding underscores the critical nature of federal support for counterterrorism efforts in New York, a region frequently cited as a high-risk target, and marks a significant turnaround after initial reductions sparked widespread concern among state officials.
