A federal judge in Maryland has halted the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) efforts to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), ordering the reinstatement of employee systems and restoring access to the agency’s headquarters. The ruling came after DOGE, led by Elon Musk, was accused of unconstitutional actions.
The court’s memorandum opinion found that DOGE’s actions likely violated the U.S. Constitution in several ways, harming both USAID employees and public interests by undermining Congress’s constitutional authority. The court specifically addressed the issue of the Appointments Clause, which requires Senate consent for principal officers, like department heads, to assume significant government roles. It was argued that Musk, as a de facto government officer, had not received the proper authorization from Congress or the Senate to exercise such authority.
Musk contended his role was advisory, not governmental, and that USAID officials had approved his discretionary actions. However, the court ruled that despite his claims, Musk and DOGE had taken unilateral actions without clear approval from agency officials.
The plaintiffs, who include USAID employees affected by DOGE’s dismantling efforts, argue that Musk’s actions represent an unprecedented and unchecked exercise of power over a federal agency. They further contend that this overreach violates the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches.
The case continues as the court considers the implications of these actions on the broader constitutional framework. The ruling highlights growing concerns over the expansion of power within the federal government and reflects ongoing tensions surrounding the Trump Administration’s efforts to reduce the scope of federal operations.
Excerpts from Max Robinette article, U. Pittsburgh School of Law, US, Jurist
