Appeals Court Stays Lower Ruling, Restores Trump Control Over U.S. Institute of Peace

A federal appeals court has issued a stay that halts a lower court ruling blocking President Trump's administration from dismantling the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP), indicating the administration's appeal is likely to succeed. The court emphasized that blocking the president's actions would cause irreparable harm by limiting his executive powers, particularly in foreign policy where USIP operates. The Trump administration, through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk, has sought to dismantle USIP as part of a campaign to streamline government and reduce underperforming institutions. This move followed Trump’s February executive order targeting USIP and other agencies for closure, leading to mass firings, legal challenges, and a standoff at USIP headquarters. The appeals court's decision effectively freezes a previous ruling by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, who had deemed USIP independent and protected its board and staff from removal, calling the firings an overreach of presidential power. The legal battle continues as USIP attempts to maintain operations amid ongoing uncertainty.