Judge Blocks Trump Move to Dismantle Peace Institute

A federal judge, Beryl Howell, blocked the Trump administration's attempt to dismantle the U.S. Institute of Peace, ruling that President Trump's executive order and the takeover by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aided by law enforcement, were unlawful. The Institute, established by Congress as an independent nonprofit, cannot be subjected to unilateral executive control or mass firings, as its leadership is protected by law. The judge criticized the administration's use of force and described the actions as a gross usurpation of power, noting that required legal procedures and congressional oversight were ignored. All actions taken by DOGE and its appointees were declared null and void, and the ousted board members and president were ordered reinstated. The decision reinforces congressional intent to safeguard the Institute’s independence and conflict resolution mission. The administration is now deciding whether to appeal.