Elon Musk's Department Accesses Sensitive Treasury Data
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has acquired access to sensitive Treasury data. Sources reveal that this includes information on Social Security and Medicare payment systems.
DOGE's mandate to streamline government operations raises concerns due to its potential to manipulate taxpayer data. The New York Times initially reported on the group's privileged access.
Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) sent a letter expressing alarm that Musk's agents may intend to withhold payments based on political motivations. He emphasized the critical importance of these payment systems.
David Lebryk, the former acting Deputy Treasury Secretary, resigned after Musk and DOGE requested access to sensitive data. Lebryk emphasized the department's vital role in government but did not mention DOGE's request in his resignation letter.
Musk responded on social media, alleging that Treasury officials have been instructed to approve payments indiscriminately. However, he provided no evidence to support this claim.
Originally led by Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, DOGE aimed to slash billions from the federal budget and reduce staff. Ramaswamy has since departed as he considers gubernatorial ambitions in Ohio.