ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A federal judge has issued a ruling that halts the Trump administration’s efforts, backed by billionaire Elon Musk, to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The ruling was delivered on Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang, who found that the actions of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under Musk’s oversight, likely violated the Constitution.
Judge Orders Suspension of DOGE’s Actions
Judge Chuang’s decision temporarily prohibits DOGE from making further cuts to USAID, a move that has drawn significant controversy. The lawsuit, filed by USAID employees and contractors, claims that DOGE’s actions have impaired the agency’s ability to perform its duties. Judge Chuang agreed, stating that USAID had been “effectively eliminated” in violation of congressional authority.
In his order, Judge Chuang mandated that the Trump administration restore access to email and computers for all USAID employees, including those who were placed on administrative leave. However, the judge stopped short of reversing terminations or fully reinstating the agency’s functions.
Background of the Legal Challenge
The legal action challenges the authority of Musk and DOGE, arguing that their actions exceed the powers granted to the executive branch. The lawsuit contends that such measures should only be carried out by officials who have been elected or confirmed by the Senate. This case is one of the first to directly implicate Musk, particularly due to his public comments about the dismantling of USAID, including a social media post in which he claimed to have “fed USAID into the wood chipper.”
Controversial Cuts to Foreign Aid
Since President Donald Trump took office, his administration has worked to reduce foreign aid spending, issuing an executive order on Inauguration Day to freeze funds for foreign assistance and review USAID’s operations. Under DOGE’s guidance, significant cuts have been made, including a reduction of nearly 83% of USAID’s program contracts and the placement of top security officials on leave. These measures followed Musk’s involvement in restructuring the agency.
The administration argues that these actions are necessary to eliminate waste and inefficiencies in government operations, a stance that aligns with Trump’s campaign promises. However, critics, including international aid organizations and Democratic lawmakers, argue that these moves exceed presidential powers and disregard Congress’s role in determining federal funding.
Impact on Global Aid and Criticism from NGOs
Abby Maxman, CEO of Oxfam America, criticized the cuts, emphasizing that the freeze on funding and the cuts to programs are having “life-or-death consequences” for millions globally. She called for the full reinstatement of USAID’s staff and resources, underscoring the agency’s critical role in international aid.
Legal and Political Fallout
The legal setback for the Trump administration comes as part of a broader political and legal struggle over the restructuring of federal agencies. The lawsuit argues that DOGE’s actions violate constitutional limits on executive power. The ruling reinforces Congress’s authority over federal agencies and highlights concerns over the Appointments Clause, which mandates Senate confirmation for key government officials.
Norm Eisen, the executive chair of the nonprofit that filed the lawsuit, hailed the decision as a significant challenge to the administration’s approach, stating, “They are performing surgery with a chainsaw instead of a scalpel, harming not just the people USAID serves but the majority of Americans who count on the stability of our government.”
Conclusion
The court’s ruling represents a major legal challenge to the Trump administration’s attempts to overhaul USAID, with significant implications for the future of U.S. foreign aid. As the case progresses, the debate over executive authority and the role of agencies like USAID is expected to remain a central issue in U.S. governance.
