The Trump administration threatens to withdraw $75 million in federal funding from Pennsylvania, raising alarms over illegal CDL issuance to a terror suspect.
Story Highlights
- The Trump administration demands that Pennsylvania rectify CDL issuance following a terror suspect’s arrest.
- Federal review reveals Pennsylvania’s violation of safety regulations by issuing CDLs to ineligible foreigners.
- PennDOT must conduct an internal audit and correct licensing errors to avoid funding cuts.
- President Trump emphasizes highway safety and making English the official language of the U.S.
Trump Administration’s Funding Threat
The Trump administration announced that it will withhold $75 million in federal funding from Pennsylvania if it fails to address issues in its commercial driver’s license (CDL) processes. This decision follows the arrest of an Uzbek terror-suspect trucker in Kansas, who possessed a Pennsylvania CDL, raising significant concerns over state compliance with federal safety regulations.
SCOOP: The Trump administration is taking on yet another blue state for issuing commercial driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants.
Transportation @SecDuffy has threatened to withhold $75 million in federal funding from Pennsylvania if the state refuses to stop handing out… pic.twitter.com/Xaw0LIUMeV
— Jennie Taer (@JennieSTaer) November 20, 2025
Pennsylvania’s CDL Issuance Violations
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy highlighted that Pennsylvania issued “non-domicile” CDLs without verifying legal status, violating federal safety laws. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) review revealed that the state had granted licenses to ineligible foreigners, emphasizing the need for Pennsylvania to pause all new and renewed non-domiciled CDLs and conduct a comprehensive internal audit.
PennDOT must identify and rescind all noncompliant licenses to prevent the $75 million funding cut. The Trump administration’s actions underscore a renewed focus on highway safety and on ensuring that American roads are free of unqualified drivers.
Political Reactions and Statements
State Sen. Jarrett Coleman and House Minority Leader Jesse Topper have voiced concerns over the situation, calling for accountability and transparency from Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration.
They emphasize the need for immediate corrective actions to ensure public safety and prevent future lapses in judgment and security. The Trump administration’s measures align with conservative values, prioritizing national security and the rule of law.
