Massive lawsuit hits Elon Musk, 30% of the U.S takes aim at his unchecked power over DOGE; here's what could happen next

Fourteen states in the United States sued Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) on Thursday, as per a report.

Elon Musk’s authority under fire

The lawsuit, which was filed in Washington DC last aims at Musk's increasing influence and what has been criticized as his uncontrolled authority over federal government spending and government operations, reported The US Express.

The case was filed by attorneys general from states including California, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.


According to the report, the lawsuit said Musk’s authority as the head of DOGE is “unconstitutional” and his actions at the agency can only be taken by a nominated and Senate-confirmed official.

Musk, who has been tasked by US president Donald Trump to trim wasteful government expenses, has reportedly obtained access to sensitive government information, a development that's causing grave concerns regarding transparency and accountability.

Legal battle

The suit requests that the court ban Musk and DOGE's power to institute changes to the distribution of public funds, the cancellation of government contracts and stop them from dismantling agencies.

Michigan attorney general Dana Nessel said, “We are asking the court to invalidate his directives and actions and to issue a restraining order,” as quoted by The US Express.

While the attorneys general also challenged DOGE’s access to sensitive government data and called on the court to find out how data obtained “through unlawful agency access” was used, as per the report.

Musk defends his actions

On the defensive, Musk has pushed back by justifying his plans as needed reforms, referencing what he calls "shocking" evidence of wasteful government spending. He claimed the Americans voted for major government reform, and now it's his responsibility to make good on that commitment, reported The US Express.

FAQs

Which states sued Musk?
The legal action was taken by the attorneys general from 14 states, including California, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

What government role does Musk have?
Elon Musk was named by President Trump to lead DOGE with the mission of cutting down on wasteful government expenditure.