Democratic attorneys general in several states have announced their intention to file a lawsuit to prevent Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing federal payment systems containing Americans' sensitive personal information. The attorneys general, representing thirteen states including New York, stated that they are acting to defend the Constitution, privacy rights, and essential funding relied upon by individuals and communities across the nation.
The statement emphasized that in the United States, no individual is above the law, including the richest man in the world, Elon Musk. It was asserted that the President does not have the authority to disclose private information or alter federal payments approved by Congress.
Concerns have been raised by government officials and labor unions regarding the potential security risks and disruptions to programs like Social Security and Medicare due to DOGE's involvement with federal payment systems. A federal judge has ruled that only two of Musk's allies may have 'read only' access to Treasury Department payment systems, with Musk himself currently denied access.
The attorneys general from various states, led by New York's Letitia James, are preparing to challenge DOGE's access to sensitive payment data within the Treasury Department. They argue that such access is unlawful and could jeopardize critical payments supporting healthcare, childcare, and other essential programs.
President Donald Trump appointed Musk to streamline the U.S. government, a move that has faced criticism from Democrats who question the extent of Musk's influence and actions within the government. Musk has defended DOGE's actions, claiming they are saving taxpayers money.
DOGE's efforts to block funds from reaching the U.S. Agency for International Development have raised concerns about the department's intentions and access to payment systems. The department had initially stated that access was for auditing purposes only, but reports suggest a different motive.
The Democratic attorneys general are expected to file their lawsuit soon, challenging DOGE's authority and actions within the federal government.
