Trump’s DOGE Faces Legal Challenges as Department of Government Efficiency is Under Scrutiny
The launch of President Donald Trump’s newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has already sparked intense legal scrutiny, as multiple watchdog groups have filed lawsuits against the initiative.
Launched in November 2024, the advisory panel is now facing accusations of not meeting federal transparency standards.
Lawsuits Emerge Over DOGE’s Legality
A report by The Washington Post revealed that National Security Counselors, a public interest law firm, has filed a lawsuit claiming that DOGE violates a 1972 law governing federal advisory committees.
The suit alleges that the group has not adhered to essential governance procedures, such as filing a charter, which is required for federal advisory bodies.
This legal action, filed on 20 January 2025, is one of several challenging the panel’s operations.
In addition to National Security Counselors, other groups including the American Public Health Association and the American Federation of Teachers have also launched lawsuits.
These organisations argue that DOGE’s lack of formal status could undermine transparency and accountability in government.
DOGE's Leadership Under Pressure
President Trump, who launched DOGE in November 2024, appointed Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to lead the initiative.
DOGE’s mission, as outlined by Trump, focuses on reducing government bureaucracy, slashing excessive regulations, and cutting down wasteful spending.
Despite these ambitious goals, the advisory panel is not a formal government department and lacks substantial authority to implement significant changes.
Ramaswamy’s Confirmed Exit from DOGE to Pursue Governorship
Ramaswamy is officially stepping down to launch his campaign for Ohio governor next week.
Through a national political reporter, Taylor Popielarz, Trump-Vance Transition Spokesperson Anna Kelly confirmed the departure, stating,
"Vivek Ramaswamy played a critical role in helping us create DOGE. He intends to run for elected office soon, which requires him to remain outside of DOGE based on the structure that we announced today. We thank him immensely for his contributions over the last 2 months and expect him to play a vital role in making America great again!"
Ramaswamy has responded to the news on X, affirming the credibility of his departure.
He also expressed his confidence in DOGE's future and hinted at forthcoming details about his plans in Ohio, while reaffirming his support for President Trump.
Elon Musk Continues as Co-chair
As Ramaswamy departs from DOGE, Elon Musk continues his involvement.
The ongoing legal issues and leadership tensions have not deterred Musk from pursuing the panel's objectives.
However, the lawsuits add another layer of complexity to DOGE’s operations.
Broader Legal and Political Implications
The formation of DOGE has attracted immediate backlash from various organisations.
Public Citizen, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, and several government employee unions have filed lawsuits, citing the panel’s vague legal status and potential violations of federal law.
The White House’s Office of Management and Budget and Tesla, both named as defendants, have yet to respond to these allegations.
Trump’s Crypto-Friendly Agenda
In parallel with DOGE’s establishment, Trump has emphasised his commitment to crypto-friendly regulations.
He has taken significant steps by appointing Paul Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner, to lead the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Trump’s previous statements at the Bitcoin 2024 Conference reflect his intention to foster a regulatory environment supportive of the digital assets industry.
Emphasising a shift in approach, he stated,
“We will have regulations, but from now on, the rules will be written by the people who love your industry, not hate your industry.”
A Weakened Advisory Panel Amid Legal Hurdles
Despite the ambitious goals set by Trump and his team, DOGE's legal status continues to be ambiguous.
The panel is not officially recognised as a government department and lacks the power to enact significant reforms.
While Trump has promised to hire around 20 individuals to assist with the project’s objectives, many critics argue that the initiative is more of a symbolic gesture than a practical solution to government inefficiency.
Previous attempts to create similar advisory panels, such as one under President Ronald Reagan in 1982, have failed to produce meaningful results.
Reagan’s group, which was tasked with reviewing executive branch spending, delivered its report 18 months late, and most of its recommendations were never implemented.
Despite the controversy surrounding DOGE, President Trump has made it clear that he intends to press ahead with his vision of a more efficient government.
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