A federal judge who recently halted key Trump administration policies has a history of donating large sums to Democratic campaigns, raising questions about his impartiality. Judge John J. McConnell Jr., an Obama appointee, has funneled hundreds of thousands of dollars into Democratic political action committees (PACs) and campaigns over the years.
McConnell, who has served as a U.S. District Judge in Rhode Island since 2011, was previously a personal injury lawyer. Federal Election Commission records reveal that before taking the bench, he financially backed top Democratic figures, including Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Hillary Clinton. His contributions also extended to Senate and House campaigns, as well as various Democratic PACs.
His financial ties to Democratic politics include support for Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), as well as donations to multiple House candidates. Additional contributions went to organizations such as the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and the Rhode Island Democratic State Committee.
McConnell’s political background has drawn renewed scrutiny after he ruled against the Trump administration’s efforts to pause federal spending. The administration had issued a freeze to evaluate federal grant disbursements, but McConnell blocked the move, issuing a temporary restraining order and later demanding immediate compliance. His ruling forces the release of funds allocated under Biden-era programs, including the Inflation Reduction Act.
This is not the first time McConnell has ruled against Trump policies. In 2022, he organized a judicial conference focused on racial justice, featuring discussions on critical race theory. His history of aligning with progressive legal circles has raised concerns among conservatives about his objectivity in politically charged cases.
Despite objections from the Trump administration, McConnell has doubled down on his decision, warning of potential criminal contempt charges if the funding freeze is not lifted. The administration has announced it will appeal the ruling.
