Additional Coverage:
Local outcry erupted Monday as Senate Democrats sounded the alarm over Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team’s access to the federal government’s payment system. This system manages trillions of dollars in expenditures and contains sensitive information on millions of Americans.
Senate Democrats called it a “hostile takeover” by an “unelected shadow government.” Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer expressed deep concern, saying an unelected billionaire now has access to the nation’s “checkbook.”
Sen. Patty Murray, a top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, warned of potential misuse of this access, suggesting Musk could target political rivals or business competitors. She highlighted Musk’s “expansive conflicts of interest” and “deep ties to China” as potential red flags.
The senators also raised concerns about the security of Americans’ personal data. Schumer alleged that former President Trump granted DOGE access to Social Security, tax refund, Medicare, Medicaid, disability, and veteran benefit data.
Sen. Ron Wyden, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, echoed these fears. He stated Musk now has access to bank accounts, tax data, Social Security numbers, and home addresses of millions, calling it a “prescription for nightmares.”
Adding fuel to the fire, reports indicate that a career official at the Treasury Department, David Lebryk, was placed on administrative leave after resisting DOGE’s access to the payment system. Sources say Lebryk subsequently announced his retirement.
While any attempts by Musk or DOGE to block congressionally approved payments would likely face legal challenges, the situation remains tense. Internal reviews would be required for any system changes requested by Musk’s team.
Sen. Wyden sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressing his concerns about potential “politically-motivated meddling,” emphasizing the critical nature of these payment systems to the country’s economic stability.
DOGE, the White House, and the Treasury Department have not yet responded to requests for comment.