The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), created through an executive order by President Donald Trump on Inauguration Day, has been hit with multiple lawsuits from nonprofits, watchdog groups, and unions. Critics argue that the temporary organization is operating without proper oversight or congressional approval.
Allegations Against DOGE
DOGE is accused of violating the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), which mandates transparency, public involvement, and ethical compliance for federal committees. The nonprofit law firm National Security Counselors filed one of the lawsuits, claiming DOGE has failed to adhere to FACA’s requirements.
Other groups, including Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics, Public Citizen, and the Center for Biological Diversity, have joined the legal challenge. These organizations allege that DOGE is operating unlawfully, without congressional authorization, and lacks the transparency required for government agencies.
Lawsuit Demands
The lawsuits collectively seek:
- A ruling declaring DOGE’s creation unlawful.
- Enforcement of transparency, ethics, records retention, and equal representation requirements under FACA.
- Disclosure of all records related to DOGE from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
Concerns About Representation
Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics emphasized that DOGE is led by unelected billionaires, which they argue is not representative of ordinary Americans. They also criticized the use of the term “department” for DOGE, a designation that typically requires congressional approval.
“Currently, DOGE is operating unchecked, without authorization or funding from Congress,” the group stated.
Broader Pushback
The lawsuits have drawn support from other prominent organizations, including the American Public Health Association, American Federation of Teachers, and Minority Veterans of America, which joined Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in its legal action.
As reported by Politico, the Center for Biological Diversity’s lawsuit specifically demands access to records from the OMB related to DOGE’s creation and operations.
DOGE was established to streamline government operations by cutting federal spending and eliminating inefficiencies. However, its structure and leadership have faced significant scrutiny, with critics alleging that the organization operates outside traditional checks and balances.
