A federal judge in Maryland has issued a preliminary injunction requiring the Trump administration to restore access to electronic systems for USAID workers affected by recent firings and leaves. The ruling, prompted by a suit from current and former employees, underscores the minimal separation of powers violations involving President Trump and Elon Musk's authority over USAID's operations. Judge Theodore Chuang's lengthy decision emphasizes that Musk, despite being listed as a senior advisor, effectively leads the agency, warranting the reinstatement of employees' access to critical systems.
At this preliminary stage, the record demonstrates that, at least during the time period relevant to this motion, Musk was, at a minimum, likely the official performing the duties and functions of the USDS administrator.
Even if viewed from the standpoint of the senior advisor position that he occupies on paper, the record of his activities to date establishes that his role has been and will continue to be as the leader of DOGE, with the same duties and degree of continuity as if he were formally in that position.
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