Federal Judge Allows Controversial DOGE Takeover of Peace Institute

WASHINGTON — A federal judge denied a request on Wednesday from the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) to block the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from taking control of the nonprofit organization mandated by Congress to promote peace efforts worldwide.

U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell‘s decision came amid ongoing allegations from USIP board members that the Trump administration’s actions were unlawful and detrimental to the institute’s ability to fulfill its mission. The ruling allows DOGE, led by billionaire Elon Musk, to continue its aggressive takeover while USIP seeks legal recourse.

On Tuesday, USIP board members, including former U.S. ambassador to Russia John Sullivan, filed a lawsuit to halt DOGE’s actions, claiming that the organization was facing an “unlawful dismantling.” Judge Howell expressed concerns about the potential for irreparable harm yet concluded that the board did not meet the threshold necessary for a temporary restraining order.

In her ruling, Howell remarked on the aggressive methods employed by DOGE, noting the involvement of armed law enforcement during the takeover. “This conduct of using law enforcement, threatening criminal investigations… just because DOGE is in a rush?” she questioned. Howell conveyed her offense at the treatment of USIP employees, stating, “I’m offended on behalf of the American citizens who have done so much service to this country.”

The USIP, established in 1984 under former President Ronald Reagan, operates as a congressionally funded independent nonprofit. It has faced scrutiny from the Trump administration, which has targeted independent agencies in an effort to reduce the size of government.

On March 14, several board members, including the institute’s president George Moose, were dismissed in a move that USIP alleges lacked lawful justification. Moose is also challenging his firing, calling the situation an “unlawful assault” on the institute.

During the proceedings, Howell emphasized the “undisputed” nature of the board members’ unlawful removals but highlighted that their request for a temporary restraining order was lacking. “Even if I reinstate them,” she noted, “their power would be very limited due to the president’s control.”

Despite the ruling, Howell acknowledged the troubling nature of the circumstances surrounding DOGE’s access to USIP. The board members described DOGE’s personnel as having forcefully entered the building with the assistance of law enforcement, essentially usurping the organization’s infrastructure, including sensitive computer systems.

The situation escalated when DOGE personnel were allowed entry following a confrontation with USIP staff, with claims made about intimidation tactics employed to suggest pervasive federal oversight. The board’s legal team moved to secure a temporary restraining order to prevent further interference with USIP’s operations.

As the legal battle unfolds, USIP aims to regain control of its facilities and operations in an effort to resume its conflict resolution and peace promotion missions directly tied to its congressional mandate. U.S. officials reported that USIP is projected to receive $55 million in federal funding in the coming year, emphasizing the organization’s importance.

Judge Howell indicated that a further hearing regarding the lawsuit against DOGE would occur, although no date was provided. As events develop, the court’s observations regarding the conduct of federal officials in this sharp dispute may lead to significant implications for the future of independent nonprofit agencies funded by Congress.