Three Major Roadblocks That Could Rein in Trump and Musk’s Federal Takeover

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Alex Bollinger
February 10, 2025
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7 minutes read

(AP Photo)

As Donald Trump and Elon Musk continue their aggressive push to reshape the federal government, their unchecked authority may soon face resistance from three key forces: the courts, financial markets, and public opinion. According to an analysis by The Washington Post, these factors could act as barriers even as Congress appears unwilling to rein in the administration’s sweeping actions.

“So far the resistance has been minimal,” writes chief correspondent Dan Balz. “Democrats have offered little opposition beyond rhetoric. Republicans in Congress have acted as if they are an extension of the executive branch rather than a separate branch of government.”

With Congress failing to provide oversight, Trump and Musk’s “search-and-destroy mission” against federal agencies continues largely unchallenged. Their actions, which The Washington Post describes as both an effort to intimidate federal workers and exact retribution against perceived enemies, have sparked concerns about the erosion of democratic norms.

Balz argues that the judiciary remains one of the most immediate checks on their power. Over the weekend, a federal judge blocked Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive Treasury Department data, including personal financial records. Another judge halted the administration’s plan to lay off 2,700 USAID employees.

While Musk is reportedly prepared to defy the Treasury order, both legal decisions highlight the judiciary’s role in limiting executive overreach. “How the judicial system, including the Supreme Court, will rule overall on Trump’s effort to expand executive power will be a long-running battle,” Balz notes.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk SpaceX Starship rocket — (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Beyond the courts, financial markets could exert significant pressure on Trump’s policies. His ongoing consideration of tariffs on U.S. allies like Canada and Mexico sent markets into turmoil last week before he delayed the move for 30 days. Given Trump’s keen attention to stock market performance, economic instability caused by his policies could force him to reconsider.

“Trump is a keen watcher of the stock indexes and will feel the effects of his tariff, tax, and spending policies lead to higher interest rates, higher prices, or slower growth,” Balz writes. Finally, public opinion remains a crucial factor. Although Trump won the popular vote, his administration’s economic policies—particularly those affecting inflation and grocery prices—could erode support if everyday Americans begin to feel the pinch.

So far, Trump’s approval rating stands at 52 percent. However, Balz argues that if that number drops significantly, Trump may be forced to adjust his approach. With Congress reluctant to act, it remains to be seen whether the courts, markets, and voters will ultimately serve as the necessary checks on Trump and Musk’s expansive power.