Judge Rules Against Musk’s USAID Shutdown, Orders Immediate Reinstatement

A federal judge has ruled that Elon Musk’s efforts to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) were likely unconstitutional. 

The ruling orders Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to immediately restore access to USAID’s electronic systems and stop further shutdown efforts.

The Court’s Decision

U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang stated that Musk’s actions bypassed Congress and the appointed government officers responsible for making such decisions. He ruled that Musk and DOGE had unlawfully taken control of USAID’s operations, violating constitutional guidelines. As part of the ruling, they must restore access to employee emails, payments, security notifications, and other systems.

Chuang also ordered Musk and DOGE to submit a written plan within two weeks to allow USAID to reoccupy its headquarters in Washington, D.C. However, the court did not reverse the terminations of thousands of USAID employees or the cancellation of many aid programs.

Why the Ruling Matters

USAID plays a key role in global humanitarian aid, providing food, healthcare, and disaster relief. Critics argue that dismantling it would severely weaken U.S. influence abroad and harm vulnerable communities worldwide.

The ruling follows a lawsuit by USAID employees, who argued that Musk and DOGE had no authority to seize control of the agency. They claimed Musk’s unilateral actions disrupted relief efforts and violated the U.S. Constitution’s requirement that government officers be properly appointed.

Political and Legal Fallout

The Trump administration has vowed to appeal the ruling, with President Donald Trump calling it an example of "rogue judges destroying our country." Since taking office, Trump has pushed for drastic government spending cuts, including slashing over 80% of USAID’s programs.

Musk, who has been working closely with Trump on government efficiency reforms, defended his actions, arguing that his role was only advisory. However, the judge found that Musk and DOGE had exercised direct control over USAID.

What’s Next?

The ruling marks a significant legal setback for Musk and the Trump administration, but the case is far from over. The administration is expected to appeal, and ongoing lawsuits could further shape the future of USAID.

For now, USAID employees will regain access to critical systems, but many of the agency’s programs remain defunded, leaving global relief efforts in turmoil.

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