A federal judge has ruled in favor of the Trump administration, rejecting a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Institute for Peace (USIP). The independent, government-funded organization sought a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prevent what it called an “ongoing destruction” by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
The legal dispute began when USIP accused DOGE of a “literal trespass and takeover by force” at its headquarters on Constitution Avenue. The institute also alleged that its electronic and physical property had been subject to ongoing damage.
The lawsuit claimed that the department’s actions posed an imminent threat to USIP’s ability to operate, warning that the agency could be “utterly destroyed” if intervention was not granted.
On Wednesday, Judge Beryl Howell denied USIP’s request for emergency relief. While acknowledging concerns about DOGE’s conduct, Howell stated that the legal requirements for granting a TRO had not been met.
“I think there is confusion in the complaint that makes me uncomfortable,” Howell said during the hearing. “I am very offended by how DOGE has treated American citizens in this matter, but that concern alone cannot justify emergency relief.”
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She further questioned USIP’s chances of success in the case, noting that the lawsuit failed to demonstrate both a strong legal argument and irreparable harm.
“Two of the most important factors—likelihood of success on the merits and the potential for irreparable harm—are just not strong enough here,” Howell added.
USIP was established in 1984 during the Reagan administration with a mission to prevent violent conflicts and broker peace deals abroad. According to its website, the institute helps protect U.S. interests and prevents America from being drawn into costly wars.
However, the organization has been at odds with the Trump administration over executive orders aimed at reducing federal bureaucracy. USIP refused to comply with a February directive that ordered agencies to cut back to statutory minimums.
As a result, the administration dismissed 11 of the 14 board members last week, leaving only Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and National Defense University President Peter Garvin.
Following the court’s decision, the White House defended its actions, arguing that the administration was taking necessary steps to eliminate what it described as “rogue bureaucrats.”
“Rogue bureaucrats will not be allowed to hold agencies hostage,” White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement to Fox News Digital. “The Trump administration will enforce the president’s executive authority and ensure agencies remain accountable to the American people.”
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