Federal Judge Orders DOGE to Disclose Operational Records on Layoffs

A federal judge has ordered Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to comply with the Freedom of Information Act, marking a significant victory for transparency advocates. The ruling comes in response to a lawsuit from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), which sought access to internal documents regarding DOGE's authority and actions, including mass firings and the dismantling of federal agencies. Judge Christopher Cooper emphasized that DOGE exercises substantial independent authority and cannot be shielded from public scrutiny. The ruling counters the Trump administration's claims that DOGE is not subject to FOIA requirements. Musk's department has faced increased scrutiny following allegations of secretive practices and the potential for significant disruptions to federal programs. The court has mandated a rolling production of documents, highlighting the need for transparency in government operations.