Federal judge skeptical of states’ arguments against Elon Musk and DOGE
A federal judge expressed doubt on Monday about efforts to prevent President Donald Trump’s administration from accessing federal data and firing federal workers. Judge Tanya Chutkan has not yet made a decision in the case involving billionaire Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who are working to reduce government spending. Chutkan has stated that she will make a ruling within 24 hours.
The case revolves around DOGE’s actions within seven federal agencies, including the Office of Personnel Management, the Department of Education, Department of Labor, The Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Commerce. Attorneys general from 14 states argue that Musk and Trump’s administration have engaged in illegal executive overreach, but Chutkan has expressed skepticism about these claims.
The lawsuit brought against DOGE states, “There is no greater threat to democracy than the accumulation of state power in the hands of a single, unelected individual.” Chutkan has stated that the lawyers representing the states have not proven that there is imminent harm that could be prevented by restraining DOGE.
New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez filed the lawsuit, along with officials from 13 other states, seeking a temporary restraining order to prevent further federal firings at the direction of Musk and DOGE. Chutkan has been critical of both the states’ arguments and representatives from Trump’s administration during the hearing.
DOJ lawyer Harry Graver argued that Elon Musk does not have the authority to make government decisions. Chutkan disagreed with this assertion, stating, “I think you stretch too far. I disagree with you there.”
Overall, the case remains unresolved as Judge Chutkan continues to weigh the arguments presented. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for government spending and the authority of the executive branch. Stay tuned for the judge’s ruling in the coming days.
