Fourteen US states have filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, arguing that Mr. Musk's move to cut spending is unconstitutional.
A group of 14 states, led by New Mexico, alleges that Elon Musk's position as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) violates the appointment clause of the US Constitution, as he has not been approved by the Senate, according to The Hill on February 13.
“Mr. Musk’s seemingly limitless and unchecked power to strip the government workforce and dismantle departments with the stroke of a pen or the click of a mouse would shock anyone who fought for independence,” the lawsuit reads.
Billionaire Elon Musk and US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on February 11
The states that filed the lawsuit argue that no other executive authority other than the president has been given broad executive power to an unelected and unconfirmed individual, which is contrary to the country’s constitutional structure. The lawsuit asks the court to bar Mr. Musk and the DOGE team from making changes to public funds, government contracts, personnel and regulatory matters, and access to data systems.
Since taking office, Mr. Trump and Mr. Musk have made a series of moves to streamline the government, advocating large-scale cuts in personnel and spending. Mr. Trump and Mr. Musk have not responded to the lawsuit filed by 14 US states.
The White House said last week that Musk had been appointed as a “special government employee,” a position designed to assist the U.S. government on a short-term basis and focus on specific issues. Previous presidents have appointed special government employees. But Musk’s influence in recent weeks has been criticized by Democrats as going beyond the traditional duties of the position.
Republican Senator Josh Hawley argued that the power to make decisions in government still rests with the president or cabinet ministers, while Mr Musk has the right to make recommendations.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/14-bang-my-kien-ong-trump-va-ti-phu-elon-musk-185250214080003514.htm
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