Judge Orders Musk, DOGE to Disclose Cost-Cutting Plans

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan has ordered Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to provide documents and answer questions regarding their authority and actions within the Trump administration. This ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by 14 Democratic state attorneys general, who argue that Musk's role in DOGE violates the U.S. Constitution's Appointments Clause by granting him unchecked power to reduce federal agencies and fire employees. Chutkan's order includes a focus on the elimination of federal contracts and the identification of DOGE staff, while denying requests for depositions and limiting discovery to certain documents. The plaintiffs seek to demonstrate that DOGE's actions have led to chaos and confusion within the government, claiming Musk's appointment was illegal and detrimental. Musk and DOGE have until April 2 to comply with the court's demands. The case highlights ongoing tensions surrounding executive power and accountability within the federal government.