DOGE's Fate and Federal Layoffs Hang in Balance Amid Pending Supreme Court Rulings

The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to issue critical rulings that may determine the fate of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the future of President Donald Trump's efforts to downsize the federal government.

Previously, lower courts have provided decisions on these matters, but the highest court in the land is expected to announce at least temporary rulings soon, which could reverse or uphold those lower court decisions.

"At some point he's going to be going back. He wants to," Trump said, hinting that Musk may refocus on his business ventures. "But I'd keep him as long as I could keep him."

The key issues at stake include recently terminated diversity, equity, and inclusion grants within the Department of Education, as well as the legality of layoffs affecting thousands of probationary employees across six government agencies.

The timing of the Supreme Court's pending rulings coincides with ongoing layoffs within the federal government. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced the dismissal of approximately 10,000 employees across various health agencies earlier this week, while other government departments have also begun offering buyouts to employees in an effort to streamline operations.

Questions arise regarding Elon Musk's future role within DOGE and the Trump administration. Musk has played an active part in government affairs, but following a recent defeat in the Wisconsin State Supreme Court race, some speculate that his political influence may be dwindling.

The central question remains: Did Trump and his administration have the legal authority to implement these decisions?