Musk and Ramaswamy Face Legal and Bureaucratic Hurdles in Push to Slash Federal Regulations

The duo, leading Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency, cite recent Supreme Court rulings but face resistance from legal experts, federal processes, and civil-service protections.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy plan to leverage two recent Supreme Court rulings to challenge federal regulations, but experts argue the rulings may complicate rather than simplify their efforts.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a newly formed advisory body under Trump, aims to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget and reduce the size of the federal workforce.
Legal experts warn that overturning existing regulations requires a lengthy administrative process, public comment periods, and adherence to federal rules, making rapid changes unlikely.
Musk and Ramaswamy’s plans to reduce federal staff could hinder their efforts, as experienced civil servants are essential for reviewing and rescinding regulations.
Congressional allies and legal challenges will play a critical role in the success or failure of DOGE’s ambitions, with activist groups prepared to sue over procedural violations.