Judge Declines to Block DOGE, but Warning Signs Loom over Elon Musk’s Role

On Tuesday, a federal district judge in Washington rebuffed 14 Democratic-controlled states that sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) blocking Trump adviser Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing data systems at several executive branch agencies, and from firing or placing on administrative leave employees within them.

Judge Tanya Chutkan’s denial of relief is a victory for President Trump, as anticipated here after the judge held a hearing on Monday. It is a qualified victory, nevertheless.

About the Author

Andrew C. McCarthy

Andrew C. McCarthy is a senior fellow at National Review Institute, an NR contributing editor, and author of Ball of Collusion: The Plot to Rig an Election and Destroy a Presidency.

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On Tuesday, a federal district judge in Washington rebuffed 14 Democratic-controlled states that sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) blocking Trump adviser Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing data systems at several executive branch agencies, and from firing or placing on administrative leave employees within them.

Judge Tanya Chutkan’s denial of relief is a victory for President Trump, as anticipated here after the judge held a hearing on Monday. It is a qualified victory, nevertheless.

About the Author

Andrew C. McCarthy

Andrew C. McCarthy is a senior fellow at National Review Institute, an NR contributing editor, and author of Ball of Collusion: The Plot to Rig an Election and Destroy a Presidency.