Federal Judge Clears Trump Administration's Overhaul of U.S. Institute of Peace

Judge Beryl Howell denied USIP's request to block the Department of Government Efficiency's takeover, allowing restructuring to proceed under Kenneth Jackson's leadership.

President Trump's February executive order reduced the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) to its statutory minimum, removing 11 board members and appointing Kenneth Jackson as acting president.
USIP staff resisted the takeover by barricading themselves in the building, disabling infrastructure, and distributing fliers labeling DOGE officials as trespassers.
Law enforcement, including DC Police and the FBI, intervened on March 17 to assist DOGE in gaining access to USIP headquarters after initial resistance from staff.
Federal Judge Beryl Howell criticized DOGE's methods but ruled that USIP's lawsuit failed to demonstrate irreparable harm needed for a temporary restraining order.
The Trump administration defended the actions as lawful and necessary to align the congressionally funded institute with executive directives, intensifying debates over federal governance and institutional independence.