Judge Rejects States' Bid to Restrict Musk's Access to Federal Data

A federal judge expressed skepticism regarding a request to block Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive data and terminating employees in various federal agencies. U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan questioned whether the plaintiffs, a coalition of 14 states, had demonstrated sufficient evidence of immediate harm to warrant a temporary restraining order. The states argue that Musk's authority under President Trump's administration is excessive and unconstitutional, claiming that it violates the U.S. Constitution's Appointments Clause by granting him unchecked power. During the hearing, Judge Chutkan indicated that the plaintiffs' request seemed more like a 'prophylactic TRO,' which is not permissible. Despite the skepticism towards the plaintiffs' arguments, the judge also challenged the Justice Department's assertion that Musk lacked formal authority in government decisions. A ruling is expected soon as the judge considers the arguments from both sides.