A federal judge has dealt a significant setback to Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), ruling that their actions lack legal authority and allowing a lawsuit by 14 Democratic-led states to proceed. The decision, handed down by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, challenges the constitutionality of Musk’s expansive role in reshaping federal agencies, accusing him of wielding unchecked power without Senate confirmation. This ruling marks a critical moment in the legal battle to curb DOGE’s aggressive cost-cutting measures, which have sparked widespread controversy.
The lawsuit, filed by attorneys general from states Fourteen states, led by New Mexico, Arizona, and Oregon, alleges that Musk and DOGE violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appointments Clause by exercising authority reserved for Senate-confirmed officials. DOGE, created by an executive order from President Donald Trump, has been tasked with slashing federal spending, terminating contracts, and firing thousands of federal workers. The states argue that Musk’s actions, including accessing sensitive government data and dismantling agencies, lack congressional approval and threaten essential programs like healthcare, education, and law enforcement funding.[](https://www.npr.org/2025/05/28/nx-s1-5414191/musk-lawsuit-doge-trump-spending-bill)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-judge-allows-states-lawsuit-against-doge-proceed-2025-05-27/)
Judge Chutkan’s 42-page order rejected the Trump administration’s attempt to dismiss the case, noting that Musk’s public statements and actions contradict claims that he is merely an advisor. While the White House insists Musk holds no formal authority, his visible leadership in DOGE’s operations, including directing agency cuts, suggests otherwise. Chutkan emphasized that the states have plausibly alleged Musk exercises power akin to a Cabinet official, making the case strong enough to move forward.[](https://www.npr.org/2025/05/28/nx-s1-5414191/musk-lawsuit-doge-trump-spending-bill)[](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/27/musks-role-leading-doge-is-continuing-and-permanent-judge-says.html)
The ruling has ignited a firestorm of reactions. Supporters of Musk and Trump argue that DOGE’s mission to eliminate government waste is necessary for fiscal discipline. Musk himself has criticized the judiciary, calling a related ruling “absolutely insane” on his platform X. However, critics, including New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, hail the decision as a step toward preserving checks and balances. Torrez stated, “This is an important milestone for stopping Musk’s reign of terror.”[](https://www.npr.org/2025/05/28/nx-s1-5414191/musk-lawsuit-doge-trump-spending-bill)
The lawsuit is one of several challenging DOGE’s actions. A separate case temporarily blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department payment systems, citing risks to sensitive data like Social Security numbers. Another lawsuit halted plans to place 2,700 USAID employees on leave, underscoring the broader legal pushback against Musk’s influence. These cases highlight concerns that DOGE’s rapid interventions could disrupt critical services and harm vulnerable populations.[](https://www.reuters.com/legal/us-judge-temporarily-blocks-musks-doge-accessing-payment-systems-2025-02-08/)[](https://www.newsweek.com/elon-musk-donald-trump-doge-lawsuits-2028267)
While the Trump administration has downplayed Musk’s role, public statements from both Musk and Trump have fueled perceptions of his significant influence. The ongoing legal battles signal a broader struggle over executive power and the role of unelected figures in government. As the case progresses, it could redefine the boundaries of authority in the federal government, ensuring that no individual, regardless of wealth or influence, can bypass constitutional oversight. For now, the nation watches as the courts decide whether DOGE’s actions will stand or be dismantled.
