1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Trump administration appear to be exceeding their constitutional authority in aggressively shrinking the federal government. Their actions raise serious concerns about the separation of powers and the proper limits on executive branch overreach. Federal judges are scrutinizing whether DOGE is actually an executive agency subject to public records laws and oversight, rather than just an advisory body as claimed. The administration's contradictory statements and Musk's own boasts suggest DOGE operatives embedded across agencies are directing mass layoffs, funding freezes, and contract cancellations beyond the scope permitted for White House advisors. The concerning tactics include DOGE affiliates drafting official agency documentation and exercising decision-making typically reserved for Senate-confirmed appointees. These actions may violate the Appointments Clause requiring significant government authorities to be properly installed. Granting unchecked power to an opaque entity like DOGE subverts transparency and accountability. The federal workforce reductions appear driven more by DOGE's zeal than judicious agency leadership. If agencies are mere rubber stamps, then DOGE's unlawful influence over programs, spending, and data access merits greater judicial remedies. Allowing this administration to gut the government's capabilities through extralegal means sets a dangerous precedent. Upholding the constitutional system of checks and balances is paramount.