US President Donald Trump has bristled at a federal judge’s ruling, calling it “a disgrace” and vowing to appeal the decision. The ruling, which denied Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency access to the Treasury Department’s confidential central payment system, sparked criticism from White House officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance.
The decision has raised concerns among Democrats and legal experts that the Trump administration may ignore unwelcome federal court decisions, potentially threatening judicial independence and the separation of powers. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts warned in December against members of both parties defying court rulings.
Trump’s reactions have led to calls for greater transparency and accountability from the judiciary. Legal expert Liz Gotein, who criticized the ruling, argued that the separation of powers is essential to democracy and individual liberty. Trump officials, including Stephen Miller, have defended their actions as necessary to uphold executive power and limit judicial overreach.
However, critics argue that the Trump administration’s actions may be seen as attempts to undermine the rule of law and defy court orders. As the judiciary prepares for another hearing in a case challenging the administration’s buyout offer to federal workers, experts warn that courts will ultimately decide what constitutes legitimate executive power.
The dispute over limits on executive power is part of a broader battle over Trump’s policies, including his attempts to shrink the federal government and change longstanding immigration policies. With Republicans controlling the White House and Congress, opponents have few avenues outside of the courts to fight back against Trump’s actions.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/02/10/trump-criticizes-judges-over-executive-power/78378595007