US judge halts Musk and DOGE's efforts to disband USAID
What's the story
A federal judge has stopped Elon Musk from shutting down the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
The order came from US District Judge Theodore Chuang (Maryland), who said Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) likely broke the US Constitution in their attempts.
The judge also ordered access to USAID's computer systems be restored to all agency employees, including those on leave.
Court order
Judge Chuang's ruling against the shutdown
Judge Chuang granted a preliminary injunction against the termination of USAID, in favor of a group of current and former employees who challenged the agency's dismantling.
He said Musk's efforts to expedite USAID's closure, including its apparent decision to permanently close headquarters without proper approval, likely violated multiple aspects of the US Constitution.
These actions harmed not only plaintiffs, but also public interest by depriving Congress of its constitutional authority.
Restoration
Judge Chuang's order for restoration
Musk and DOGE, as per the ruling, were ordered by Judge Chuang to restore access to email, payment systems and other electronic resources to all current USAID employees and contractors.
He also prohibited further actions related to the USAID shutdown, including placing employees on administrative leave or firing them.
The judge's ruling is seen as a legal setback to Trump's cost-cutting drive which had faced challenges from other judges.