Elon Musk’s DOGE Retains Data Access Per Judge Tanya Chutkan's Ruling

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency can continue accessing federal data systems. A U.S. district judge denied a temporary restraining order requested by Democratic state attorneys general. Judge Tanya Chutkan ruled the states failed to show imminent harm, though she acknowledged their constitutional concerns over Musk’s role. The lawsuit argues that Musk’s position violates the Appointments Clause, which requires Senate confirmation for federal officers with significant authority. While Chutkan called the states’ case “strong,” she said it did not meet the emergency action threshold. Other lawsuits challenge DOGE’s access to restricted IT systems.