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Judge Allows Lawsuit Against Musk Over DOGE Authority

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Judge Tanya Chutkan allowed a lawsuit against Elon Musk and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The suit says Musk acted beyond authority leading DOGE, established by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Chutkan said Musk's actions could violate the Appointments Clause because he exercised powers like a Senate-confirmed official.
Some claims were dismissed, but the case continues over DOGE actions like budget cuts and firings.
Musk's DOGE tenure ended in May 2025.

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Story summary

Judge Tanya Chutkan allowed a lawsuit against Elon Musk and Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The suit says Musk acted beyond authority leading DOGE, established by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Chutkan said Musk's actions could violate the Appointments Clause because he exercised powers like a Senate-confirmed official.
Some claims were dismissed, but the case continues over DOGE actions like budget cuts and firings.
Musk's DOGE tenure ended in May 2025.