Washington: A US federal judge has decided not to immediately block Elon Musk or the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive government data or participating in worker layoffs. The ruling came after 14 Democratic states filed a lawsuit questioning DOGE’s authority.
US District Judge Tanya Chutkan acknowledged that there are valid concerns regarding Musk’s authority but found that there was insufficient evidence of "grave legal harm" that would justify blocking DOGE’s actions with a temporary restraining order.
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The lawsuit, filed by the attorneys general of 14 Democratic states, challenges DOGE's access to government data systems. The states argue that Musk is wielding significant power typically reserved for elected officials or those confirmed by the Senate, as outlined by the US Constitution.
Role of DOGE, Musk's involvement
While DOGE has been given access to government computer systems with the approval of President Donald Trump, the Trump administration maintains that layoffs are being carried out by agency heads. They assert that Musk is not directly involved in the day-to-day operations of DOGE, despite his public support for the initiative.
DOGE, led by Musk, has been investigating government budgets to identify waste, fraud, and abuse. However, the group has faced increasing legal challenges, with critics accusing DOGE of violating the law in its pursuit of government efficiencies.
Judge acknowledges states’ concerns but stops short of action
Chutkan recognised the concerns raised by the suing states, including New Mexico and Arizona. She stated that DOGE’s actions have led to "considerable uncertainty and confusion" and acknowledged the legitimacy of the states' concerns regarding Musk’s authority and DOGE’s lack of Congressional oversight.
Despite these concerns, Chutkan ruled that there is not enough immediate harm to warrant a temporary block at this stage. She stated that the full impact of DOGE’s work remains unclear and that courts can only issue orders to prevent immediate harm.
Judge Tanya Chutkan, nominated by Democratic President Barack Obama, previously oversaw the dismissed criminal election interference case against former President Trump in Washington, DC.
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Published: 19 Feb 2025, 07:14 am IST
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