Justice Department Defends DOGE’s Legitimacy
During a hearing, Harry Graver, a lawyer for the Justice Department, defended DOGE’s legitimacy, stating that there are “very clear paper trails” for all its actions and no direct orders issued by Musk.
“Nowhere have my friends offered a shroud to show that Elon Musk has any formal or actual authority to make any government decision,” Graver said.
“I think you stretch too far,” Chutkan interjected. “I disagree with you there.”
Following the hearing, the Justice Department submitted a sworn declaration clarifying that Musk is not a DOGE employee but serves as a senior adviser to the president at the White House.
Concerns Over Mass Firings and DOGE’s Expanding Influence
Judge Chutkan also questioned the government about reports indicating thousands of federal employees had been fired across multiple agencies. A Justice Department lawyer stated that he could not confirm the accuracy of these reports.
This case is one of many lawsuits challenging DOGE’s structure and its ability to access federal systems. Legal battles continue as opponents seek to curb DOGE’s influence over multiple government agencies.
