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Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Government Efficiency Team from Accessing Treasury Systems
In a recent development, President Donald Trump expressed strong disagreement with a federal judge’s ruling that restricts his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team, led by Elon Musk, from accessing the Treasury Department’s payment and data systems. This ruling, issued by US District Judge Paul Engelmayer of the Southern District of New York, came after 19 Democratic state attorneys general filed a lawsuit arguing that granting DOGE "full access" to Treasury systems would violate the law. Trump, during an exclusive interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier, called the ruling "crazy" and emphasized the need to address government inefficiency, fraud, and abuse. He reiterated his commitment to solving these issues, pointing to the "irreparable harm" caused by wasteful spending in federal agencies such as USAID.
19 Democratic State Attorneys General File Lawsuit Against DOGE
The lawsuit, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James, claims that allowing DOGE unrestricted access to Treasury systems poses a significant risk of "irreparable harm." Judge Engelmayer, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, sided with the plaintiffs and issued a temporary restraining order. This order, effective until at least February 14, prohibits political appointees, special government employees, and any Treasury Department staff detailed from other agencies from accessing Treasury payment systems or data containing personally identifiable information. The matter will be revisited during a scheduled hearing on February 14. Trump, Secretary Scott Bessent, and the US Treasury are named as defendants in the case.
Trump and Allies Slam the Ruling as Overreach of Judicial Authority
Trump and his allies, including Vice President JD Vance and other conservatives, have strongly criticized the ruling, arguing that it oversteps judicial authority. Vance compared the ruling to a judge attempting to dictate military operations or prosecutorial discretion, which he described as illegal. Trump echoed these sentiments, stating that the ruling would not slow down his efforts to address government inefficiency. He emphasized the importance of uncovering and addressing the misuse of funds within federal agencies, which he described as "a big scam."
Judge’s Sweeping Order Sparks Debate on Executive and Judicial Powers
The judge’s order has sparked a broader debate about the balance of power between the executive and judicial branches of government. The ruling specifically bars access to Treasury systems for DOGE members, including Elon Musk, who has been working closely with Trump on the government efficiency initiative. Musk and other conservatives aligned with Trump have condemned the ruling, arguing that it undermines the executive branch’s legitimate authority. Trump, during his interview with Bret Baier, expressed frustration with the legal challenges his administration faces, calling them part of a broader effort to obstruct his agenda.
Trump Highlights Findings of Government Waste and Mismanagement
During the interview, Trump provided further details about the findings of his government efficiency initiative, which has been auditing federal agencies to identify wasteful spending, fraud, and corruption. He described the misuse of hundreds of millions of dollars, suggesting that the funds could be better utilized elsewhere. For instance, he mentioned the possibility of reallocating funds to the State Department under the leadership of Senator Marco Rubio. Trump also praised Elon Musk for his role in uncovering these inefficiencies, stating that Musk has been "terrific" in helping to identify and address the issues.
Trump Discusses Canada and Attends Super Bowl
In addition to discussing the government efficiency initiative, Trump touched on other topics during the interview, including his recent comments about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state. He argued that such a move would benefit both countries, citing the $200 billion a year he claims the US loses in its current relationship with Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously dismissed the idea, calling it "a real thing." Trump also revealed that he would be attending the Super Bowl, where he would watch the Chiefs and Eagles face off in New Orleans. The interview, which covered a wide range of topics from politics to sports, will air in full on Monday during "Special Report with Bret Baier."
