By Owen Walsh, Senior Correspondent
On May 19, 2025, a federal judge ruled against the Department of Government Engagement (DOGE) and the U.S. government in their attempt to take full control of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and its $500 million headquarters. Judge Beryl Howell deemed the removal of USIP’s board members unlawful, ordering their reinstatement and sharply criticizing the conduct of government operatives during the March takeover.
Judge Slams Federal Overreach
In a 102-page ruling, Judge Howell condemned the DOGE-led seizure as a “gross usurpation of power” and reaffirmed USIP’s legal status as an independent, congressionally funded entity. The court found that the administration acted without legal authority in dismissing USIP’s board and appointing new leadership through executive directive.
The judge emphasized that the institute operates outside of executive control, a structure designed by Congress to ensure its nonpartisan mission endures regardless of political winds. Her ruling invalidated the executive order signed in February 2025 that labeled USIP “non-essential” and triggered the attempted shutdown.
Judge Howell’s decision not only reinstated USIP’s ousted board but also nullified all personnel and financial decisions made under DOGE’s interim leadership. The ruling represents a rare and forceful judicial pushback against executive overreach.
Timeline of Events
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February 2025: The President signs an executive order calling for the dissolution of USIP.
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March 2025: DOGE operatives, with law enforcement and private security, forcibly occupy the USIP headquarters, removing senior officials and redirecting institute assets.
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May 2025: The U.S. District Court rules the takeover illegal, reinstating original leadership and ordering full restoration of USIP governance.
Institutional Reinstatement
Following the court’s decision, USIP’s original president and board members were restored to their posts. The institute resumed normal operations within 24 hours, reversing hiring freezes, financial holds, and disrupted partnerships that had been implemented by DOGE during its control.
Former USIP President George Moose publicly expressed gratitude, stating the ruling affirmed the importance of safeguarding institutions that work toward peace and global stability. He called on staff and partners to “renew their commitment to the institute’s mission with fresh resolve.”
Employees at the institute, many of whom had faced abrupt dismissal or job insecurity, returned to their roles with a sense of relief and vindication. Several described the months of uncertainty as “deeply demoralizing” but said they were heartened by the court’s decisive response.
Broader Implications
Legal scholars hailed the ruling as a significant precedent in affirming the autonomy of federally chartered nonprofits and limiting presidential authority over independent entities. It also sent a strong signal to other nonpartisan organizations concerned about executive encroachment.
The decision underscores the judiciary’s role in preserving institutional integrity and maintaining a balance of power among the branches of government. It may also influence how future administrations interact with independent agencies created by Congress.
Looking Ahead
As USIP returns to its core work of international conflict resolution, diplomacy training, and research dissemination, the institute’s leadership has pledged to increase transparency and reaffirm its role in advancing peaceful global engagement.
Despite the legal victory, observers remain watchful of further political attempts to redefine or diminish USIP’s authority. For now, the institute stands firm, its independence reaffirmed, and its mission intact.
