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The Trump administration is reportedly gearing up to halt significant federal funding streams to California, with actions potentially starting as soon as Friday. Multiple sources have confirmed that federal agencies are being directed to identify grants that can be withheld from the state. The University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems are particularly at risk of losing all federal grant funding.

White House spokesman Kush Desai strongly criticized California's policies on energy, immigration, and other issues, emphasizing that no taxpayer should support the "demise" of the country. Desai clarified, however, that no final decisions have been made, and any current discussions remain speculative.

Targeting an individual state for extensive funding cuts is an unusual move, yet this latest action aligns with President Donald Trump's ongoing confrontations with Democratic-led California. Last month, Trump threatened to cut federal funds over a transgender athlete's participation in a sporting event. Earlier this year, he also criticized California's wildfire management and slashed $126.4 million in flood prevention funding for the state.

Sources indicate that the administration's focus on California universities stems from complaints of antisemitism on campuses, an issue that these institutions have been addressing over the past year. Similar actions were previously taken against Harvard and Columbia universities. Given that the UC system is the third-largest employer in the state and both university systems are pivotal in biotechnology and medical research, such cuts could have wide-reaching impacts.

While the universities' specific counteractions remain unknown, representation by California's attorney general, Rob Bonta, could be a possibility. CNN reached out to Bonta's office, the UC system, and the CSU system for statements.

California Rep. Zoe Lofgren, a leading Democrat on the Science, Space and Technology Committee, criticized Trump's potential cuts, emphasizing the political motivations behind them and pledging to fight the measures in court. Similarly, Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker and California Democrat, vowed to resist any punitive actions against the state.

California's state legislature had allocated $25 million to combat Trump administration policies, with only $5 million spent thus far. GOP Rep. Darrell Issa mentioned that university representatives have expressed concern about their funding prospects. While Issa plans to advocate for essential grants, he emphasized the need for specific justifications for any funding following budgetary constraints.

This developing story highlights the escalating tensions between the Trump administration and California, with potentially significant repercussions for the state's educational and research institutions.