USIP Headquarters
A federal judge on Wednesday granted temporary approval for the takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) by tech billionaire Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), despite accusations that Musk’s team had forcefully occupied the building.
The emergency ruling followed an incident on Monday when DOGE staffers, aided by police officers, gained access to USIP’s Washington headquarters. USIP, an independent, nonprofit organization funded by Congress and located near the U.S. State Department, has challenged the takeover in court, calling it an unlawful seizure.
The move represents one of the most aggressive efforts by DOGE in the Trump administration’s campaign to reduce the federal workforce, which currently stands at 2.3 million, and cut government expenditures.
Judge Criticizes Forceful Entry but Declines Immediate Halt
U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, while expressing strong disapproval of DOGE’s methods, refused to immediately halt the takeover. USIP had petitioned the court to block what it described as “the unlawful dismantling of the Institute.”
Judge Howell criticized DOGE’s use of armed police to seize control of the building, describing the action as “terrorizing” and the treatment of USIP staff as “abominable.” She also expressed personal offense at the incident, calling it an affront to American citizens.
Despite her concerns, Howell noted that USIP’s lawsuit was “messy,” pointing out that it was filed only by five board members rather than the entire board, and that the ousted president was not listed as a plaintiff. She scheduled another hearing on the case but did not provide a specific date.
Tense Standoff Leads to Expulsion of USIP Officials
Monday’s takeover followed a brief standoff in which USIP employees attempted to block entry by locking the building’s doors. However, DOGE staff, with assistance from local law enforcement, removed USIP’s president, several staff members, and an attorney from the premises.
USIP’s chief security officer stated in an affidavit that he had initially called the police for assistance when DOGE personnel attempted to enter. However, upon arrival, officers instead facilitated the expulsion of USIP employees, aligning with DOGE’s takeover efforts.
White House Defends Takeover; USIP Calls It ‘Trespass by Force’
Before the ruling, a White House spokesperson defended President Donald Trump’s actions, stating that he was exercising his authority to prevent “rogue bureaucrats” from obstructing government efficiency.
USIP, in its lawsuit, argued that DOGE’s forced entry constituted “literal trespass and takeover by force.” The lawsuit further alleged that DOGE staff had “plundered the offices” to gain access to sensitive computer systems and infrastructure.
Neither DOGE nor USIP officials provided immediate comments following the judge’s decision. The White House also declined to issue any additional statements.
Legal Dispute Over USIP’s Status and Trump’s Executive Order
USIP has challenged the legality of the takeover, arguing that it is not a government agency and, therefore, cannot be forcibly absorbed by DOGE. Founded by Congress in 1984, USIP is tasked with safeguarding U.S. interests by preventing violent conflicts and facilitating peace negotiations worldwide.
The institute, which is projected to receive $55 million in congressional funding this year, also benefits from private donations.
The legal battle intensified after Trump, on March 14, dismissed most of USIP’s board members without explanation. The three remaining members—including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth—then removed USIP’s president and installed a Trump loyalist, who was among the group that entered the building on Monday.
USIP’s lawsuit argues that Trump’s executive order last month, which declared the institute a “government entity,” was inaccurate and unlawful. The president justified the takeover by labeling USIP “unnecessary” and asserting that government resources could be better utilized elsewhere.
As legal proceedings continue, the fate of USIP and its independence remains uncertain, with both sides preparing for a prolonged courtroom battle.
