The Trump administration is celebrating another victory in its mission to streamline government operations. A federal appeals court has granted permission for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to continue its work at USAID despite fierce opposition from Democrats.
At a glance:
• Federal appeals court allows DOGE to continue operating at USAID, delivering another win for the Trump administration
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced USAID’s closure, stating it “strayed from its original mission” with “gains too few and costs too high”
• The State Department will take over essential USAID functions to ensure foreign aid aligns with America’s national interests
• Appeals court ruled Elon Musk was acting as an Adviser to President Trump, not as DOGE Administrator, rejecting claims of unconstitutional appointments
• The decision overturns a previous ruling by District Judge Theodore Chuang, who had attempted to halt DOGE’s cost-cutting measures
Trump Administration Secures Major Court Victory
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit has delivered a significant win for President Trump’s government efficiency efforts. The court’s ruling allows the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to continue its operations within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), despite ongoing legal challenges from former employees and contractors.
A three-judge panel determined that the administration “made a strong showing that they are likely to succeed on the merits of the appeal” and that halting DOGE’s work would cause irreparable harm. The decision effectively overturns a lower court ruling by U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuang, who had previously found DOGE’s actions likely unconstitutional.
USAID Reform Long Overdue
Secretary of State Marco Rubio wasted no time implementing changes following the court victory. The State Department has announced plans to shutter USAID while absorbing its essential functions, marking a major reform to an agency that controlled approximately $40 billion in annual spending.
“Foreign assistance done right can advance our national interests, protect our borders, and strengthen our partnerships with key allies. Unfortunately, USAID strayed from its original mission long ago. As a result, the gains were too few and the costs were too high,” Rubio stated in an official announcement.
The Secretary further emphasized the administration’s commitment to responsible foreign aid programs. “Thanks to President Trump, this misguided and fiscally irresponsible era is now over. We are reorienting our foreign assistance programs to align directly with what is best for the United States and our citizens,” Rubio said.
Legal Challenges Fail to Halt Reforms
A group of 26 current and former USAID employees had filed a lawsuit alleging the Trump administration violated the Constitution’s appointments clause. The plaintiffs specifically targeted Elon Musk’s involvement with DOGE, claiming he wielded significant power without proper Senate confirmation.
The appeals court dismissed these arguments, with Circuit Judge Marvin Quattlebaum writing, “While defendants’ role and actions related to USAID are not conventional, unconventional does not necessarily equal unconstitutional.” The court further clarified that Musk was acting as a Senior Adviser to President Trump, not as the DOGE Administrator, and that agency officials ultimately approved the changes.
The ruling represents a significant setback for Democrats and bureaucrats attempting to block President Trump’s government efficiency initiatives. The court’s decision allows the administration to continue its work streamlining foreign aid programs and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly.
The State Department memo indicated that while some USAID employees might be rehired for essential aid programs, all non-statutory positions would be eliminated. This targeted approach aims to enhance efficiency, accountability, and strategic impact in foreign assistance while eliminating waste and programs that do not align with the administration’s America First priorities.
