Dear Editor,
The BadAss Grandmas for Democracy, a non-partisan group who have fought for public integrity in government in North Dakota since 2018, wish to publicly express our deep concern over the current constitutional crisis and the alarming overreach of Elon Musk in his role within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The recent actions taken by Musk, including the mass firings of federal employees and unauthorized access to sensitive government data, have raised significant questions about the legality and constitutionality of his position.
The U.S. Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances designed to prevent any one branch of government from wielding excessive power. Despite weak assertions to the contrary by the Administration of the parameters of his role, it is clear that Musk’s actions, carried out without proper oversight or Senate confirmation, undermine this fundamental principle.
The Appointments Clause of the Constitution clearly states that principal officers must be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.
Musk’s role, created by executive order without Congressional involvement, appears to violate this clause and sets a dangerous precedent for future governance.
Thousands of dedicated public servants have been dismissed without due process, leaving critical functions of our government in jeopardy. This reckless approach not only disregards the rights of these employees but also threatens the stability and effectiveness of our federal institutions.
The chaotic firings orchestrated by DOGE have caused widespread disruption and uncertainty within federal agencies that provide services in North Dakota and Minnesota.
For example, all students at North Dakota State University received an email on February 18 saying NDSU is still determining what else the institution must do to be in compliance with a “Dear Colleague Letter” issued by the Department of Education regarding issues of race and national origin.
Clearly, they are on the same uncertain ground as farmers about tariffs; Veterans about benefits, and local nursing homes about Medicaid cuts.
As citizens, we must demand accountability and transparency from our leaders. It is imperative that we uphold the principles enshrined in our Constitution and ensure that no individual, regardless of their wealth or influence, is above the law.
We urge our elected representatives to take immediate action to address this constitutional crisis and rein in the overreach of Elon Musk; for our democracy; for our grandchildren, for future generations and for all of us.
Sincerely, BadAss Grandmas Leadership Team, and all 356 members of BG4D, nationwide – Dina Butcher, Bismarck, ND; Ellen Chaffee, Bismarck, ND; Lyn Dockter – Pinnick, Moorhead, MN; Barb Lang, Jamestown, ND; Lynnell Simonson Popowski, Warsaw, ND; Kathy Tweeten, Bismarck, ND; Sarah Vogel, Bismarck, ND; Jane Williams, Fargo, ND
Verified by phone on Feb. 20 with Lyn Dockter-Pinnick, Moorhead, MN – LAO (DLJ Editor and member of the BG4D)
