Federal Judge Blocks Elon Musk’s Efforts to Dismantle USAID, Citing Likely Constitutional Violations

The court ruled that Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency likely violated the Constitution, halting their actions and reinstating USAID operations.

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction against Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for their attempts to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
The ruling found that Musk’s authority to lead DOGE and shut down USAID likely violated the Constitution’s Appointments Clause and separation of powers.
The court ordered DOGE to reinstate access to email and payment systems for USAID employees and contractors, ensuring operational continuity.
Musk and DOGE must facilitate the reoccupation of USAID’s Washington headquarters within two weeks, reversing earlier closures and disruptions.
The case, initiated by former USAID employees and contractors, raises broader concerns about executive overreach and the delegation of federal authority to private individuals.