Tensions escalated at the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) on Monday as a standoff unfolded between the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team and the institute’s staff. The situation required police intervention, highlighting the ongoing clash between the administration and what they call "rogue bureaucrats."
The incident began when Kenneth Jackson, the newly appointed acting president of USIP, attempted to enter the building in Washington, D.C. Jackson was accompanied by members of the DOGE team, which was formed to streamline government operations. However, they were met with resistance from employees who had not complied with the administration’s orders to reduce the institute’s size.
The White House had previously issued an executive order aimed at cutting down the federal bureaucracy, specifically targeting organizations like USIP. The administration accused the institute of not adhering to these directives, leading to the firing of 11 out of 14 board members last week. This included the removal of George Moose, the former president, who had served in the position since the Clinton administration.
Moose, who was dismissed for noncompliance with the executive order, reportedly barricaded himself in his office during the standoff. He claimed that the DOGE team’s actions amounted to an illegal takeover of a private nonprofit organization. Meanwhile, Jackson asserted his authority as the acting president, stating that he had been duly appointed by the board.
As tensions rose, local police were called to the scene. They arrived to find Jackson and the DOGE team attempting to gain entry to the institute. Officers were able to verify Jackson’s position and escorted him into the building, while Moose left without further incident. No arrests were made during the confrontation.
In the aftermath, the USIP filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, seeking to halt what they described as an unlawful dismantling of the institute. The lawsuit claims that the administration’s actions could irreparably harm their ability to fulfill their mission of promoting peace and conflict resolution.
This standoff is part of a broader pattern of conflict between the Trump administration and various federal agencies. Similar incidents have occurred at other government organizations, including the U.S. African Development Foundation, where DOGE teams faced pushback from agency heads.
The ongoing disputes raise questions about the balance of power between the executive branch and independent agencies. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the courts will respond to the administration’s efforts to reshape the federal bureaucracy.