America First Legal (AFL) has broadened its investigation into the selection of Judge John McConnell to preside over a lawsuit challenging the Trump Administration's temporary freeze on discretionary federal spending. The case, initiated by 22 states including Rhode Island and the District of Columbia, was filed on January 28, 2025. Concerns have been raised about the choice of jurisdiction and Judge McConnell's potential conflict of interest due to his history of anti-Trump statements.
Judge McConnell, Chief Judge of Rhode Island’s Federal District Court, has been affiliated with Crossroads Rhode Island for nearly two decades and served as Chairman for ten years. During this period, Crossroads received at least $128 million in government funding. AFL argues that this connection could financially benefit from his ruling and has called for his recusal.
The organization is now seeking records from Rhode Island to understand why the lawsuit was filed there among all possible jurisdictions. AFL emphasizes the importance of an impartial judiciary free from bias.
Andrew Block, Senior Counsel at America First Legal, stated: “As President Trump rightfully retakes control of the Executive Branch, every challenge seems to end up in front of judges who are hostile towards the President and his Administration. AFL has been a leader in exposing the left’s lawfare against President Trump and will continue to do so."
Block further commented on perceived forum shopping: "It appears that in their ‘resistance’ efforts, the left is using forum shopping to bring a case in Rhode Island to try to get a favorable judge. It’s ironic that Senator Whitehouse of Rhode Island, a vocal critic of forum shopping, is noticeably silent while this is taking place in his backyard.”