The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has officially regained control of its headquarters in Washington, D.C., after a months-long illegal occupation by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This newly created federal agency, led by entrepreneur Elon Musk, set out to dismantle and restructure government institutions in early 2025. What they left behind was costly damage, legal challenges, and national controversy.
Located near the National Mall, the USIP building was found in disrepair. Officials encountered waterlogged carpets, cracked plumbing, mold-covered walls, and broken ceilings. Ventilation systems no longer functioned, leading to infestations of rats, cockroaches, and even birds. Trash, exposed wires, and unauthorized alterations made the facility unsafe and unrecognizable.
The Controversial Takeover
The occupation began in March 2025 under an executive order by President Donald Trump. This order enabled DOGE to assume control of various agencies for the purpose of eliminating perceived inefficiencies. Despite its bipartisan mission to promote diplomacy and peacebuilding, USIP was labeled obsolete.
DOGE agents, backed by law enforcement, entered USIP’s building and removed its staff. Elon Musk’s close associate, 28-year-old entrepreneur Nate Cavanaugh, took charge despite having no background in diplomacy. This action immediately sparked backlash from lawmakers, NGOs, and international organizations who viewed it as an attack on institutional autonomy.
Legal Showdown and Judicial Reversal
In response, USIP’s board filed a lawsuit. They argued that DOGE lacked the authority to interfere with a congressionally chartered body. The court agreed. On May 19, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Beryl Howell ruled DOGE’s actions illegal. She ordered the agency to vacate the premises and return all seized documents and digital files. The ruling marked a clear defense of congressional power against executive overreach.
Fallout: Physical and Operational Damage
Following the court ruling, USIP’s leadership returned to find more than just physical damage. Archives had been deleted or altered. Some diplomatic files were missing. Cloud-based systems required security audits and full restoration. USIP hired cybersecurity firms to prevent future breaches.
The damage extended to personnel. Dozens of staff were dismissed or placed on involuntary leave. Their absence disrupted international partnerships and ongoing conflict mediation. Stakeholders worldwide were affected, from NGOs to peacekeeping organizations.
Ambassador George Moose, reinstated as acting president, called the episode “a betrayal of trust” and promised to rebuild USIP’s credibility. He noted that while restoration would take time, the mission remained intact.
Renewed Debate on Government Oversight
The DOGE incident prompted lawmakers to draft new legislation. These laws aim to protect federally chartered institutions from executive overreach. Only Congress should be able to restructure or eliminate such organizations. Meanwhile, groups like the ACLU and Government Accountability Project began investigating DOGE’s operations.
Watchdog groups urged the Department of Justice to look into potential violations, including destruction of federal property and unauthorized surveillance. Many now question how DOGE received funding and operated with so little oversight.
Path to Recovery
USIP has started to rebuild. A portion of its headquarters reopened in June. Programs such as conflict mediation and diplomatic training have resumed. New staff hiring is ongoing. The Institute is also working with preservationists and digital security experts to prepare long-term recovery plans.
Ambassador Moose confirmed that USIP is re-engaging with partners, including the State Department, to restore relationships and rebuild trust. While challenges remain, the Institute is committed to its peacebuilding mission.
Final Reflections
The DOGE occupation of USIP is a cautionary tale. It exposed the dangers of politicizing nonpartisan institutions. What was framed as government “efficiency” turned into a damaging power grab that disrupted vital work and damaged a respected organization.
Despite the turmoil, USIP’s survival and recovery demonstrate the strength of democratic principles. With legal support and public backing, the Institute continues to serve its mission as a symbol of diplomacy and resilience.
Sources:
TechCrunch – DOGE Leaves USIP in Disrepair
AP News – Court Rules DOGE’s Takeover of USIP Illegal
Business Insider – DOGE Installed 28-Year-Old to Run USIP
