Judge Rules Musk-Led Government Efficiency Initiative Subject to FOIA

A federal court decision challenges the secrecy of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, mandating greater transparency in its operations.

A federal judge ruled that Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is likely subject to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements, citing its significant influence and lack of transparency.
The watchdog group Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) brought the case after DOGE refused to process a FOIA request, marking a victory for journalists and transparency advocates.
DOGE, positioned within the Executive Office of the President, has faced criticism for its mass firings of federal employees and dismantling of agencies, while claiming to save the government over $100 billion—a figure experts dispute.
The court noted DOGE's parallels to Musk’s prior corporate practices, including the use of encrypted communications and controversial employee termination methods.
Despite the ruling, government lawyers estimate it could take years to release requested documents, as FOIA offices face understaffing and additional strain from DOGE-related actions.