In a significant ruling on Monday, a federal district judge declared the Trump administration's takeover of the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) as unlawful. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell's decision deemed the actions taken by illegitimately-installed leaders of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as null and void. This landmark ruling has far-reaching implications for the future of the organization and its operations.
Judge Howell specifically addressed the removal of USIP’s president, the appointment of DOGE-affiliated officials, and the dismissal of nearly all USIP staff. She ruled that these actions were executed by individuals lacking the legal authority to make such decisions. As a result, the judge declared all actions surrounding the takeover as null and void, restoring the legitimacy of the institute's leadership.
The ruling follows an intense confrontation at the USIP headquarters in Washington, D.C., where the acting head of the institute reported a break-in by DOGE personnel. During this incident, members of the DOGE team, supported by law enforcement, forcibly took control of the building. Subsequently, most of the institute's employees were laid off, raising concerns about the legality of these actions.
In her decision, Judge Howell stated that George Moose would continue to serve as the president of USIP. She also issued a ban on the defendants from further trespassing on any real or personal property belonging to the Institute and its staff, contractors, and representatives. This ruling reinforces the importance of protecting the integrity of the U.S. Institute of Peace and its mission.
Founded under President Ronald Reagan, the U.S. Institute of Peace plays a crucial role as an independent think tank. Judge Howell emphasized that the institute's unique structure allows it to function neither as a traditional Executive branch agency nor as a completely private nonprofit. It serves both the executive and legislative branches by conducting international peace research, education, training, and providing information services.
Judge Howell criticized the Trump administration for hastily moving to shut down the institute without proper consultation with Congress. She noted that the administration employed aggressive tactics, relying on law enforcement from multiple local and federal agencies to enforce Trump's executive order. This highlights concerns regarding the misuse of power and the importance of upholding democratic processes.
A spokesperson for the White House has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the ruling. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the Trump administration will react to this significant judicial decision and what it means for the future operations of the U.S. Institute of Peace.
