14 US states sue Trump and Musk

February 14, 2025

Fourteen states in the US have filed a federal lawsuit against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, claiming that Musk's powers as head of the Department of Government Efficiency are unconstitutional.

Why was Musk sued?

The states are asking the court to temporarily limit Musk's powers in government. They say Musk is interfering in government decisions without Senate confirmation and has the power to close federal agencies, which they believe is unconstitutional.

What does the Trump administration say?

Trump and Musk see the lawsuit as a move against government reform, which they say Musk is working to reduce bureaucracy and cut government spending.

Pre-trial process

Federal courts have previously ruled to temporarily limit some of Musk's powers. For example, the Treasury and Education departments are trying to limit his access to government data.

States are trying to limit Musk's influence in government through lawsuits. But the Trump administration is resisting, arguing that his actions are legal. The lawsuit could spark major political controversy in the United States.