If there’s one thing the Trump administration loves more than a Twitter rant, it’s finding creative ways to weaponize government resources against vulnerable populations. In the latest episode of “Governmental Gaslighting,” the Department of Justice is attempting to hold crime victim services hostage by threatening to withhold a whopping $165 million in critical funding from California.

A Petty Power Play

California Attorney General Rob Bonta isn’t here for these shenanigans. Leading a coalition of 21 attorneys general, he’s calling out the administration’s latest attempt to strong-arm states into becoming immigration enforcement pawns. The catch? States must now help the Department of Homeland Security with immigration activities to access Victims of Crime Act funds.

Victims Caught in the Crossfire

These aren’t just any funds - we’re talking about critical support for 35 programs that help survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, hate crimes, and other traumatic experiences. By linking victim services to immigration enforcement, the Trump administration is essentially telling survivors: “Your healing depends on our political agenda”.

Fighting Back

Bonta isn’t mincing words, describing this move as “inhumane” and “morally wrong”. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court, demands that these unconstitutional conditions be removed. And given California’s track record of legal victories against the administration (17 out of 19 cases), smart money’s on Bonta.

Stay fierce, California - we’re watching this legal drama unfold.