Lawsuits fail to block Musk's DOGE from accessing sensitive records

In the United States, lawsuits have been filed to challenge Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) concerning its access to sensitive government data. The complaints, submitted by various parties including state attorneys general and government unions, raise questions about the legality of Musk's access and operations. A federal judge recently ruled that DOGE may continue to access records from at least three federal agencies, despite concerns about potential breaches of privacy rights and unlawful use of sensitive information. The lawsuits allege basic security failures, unauthorized access to personal data of millions, including Social Security numbers and tax information. The plaintiffs argue that Musk and DOGE are operating without proper authority and that the actions taken by the Department infringe upon citizens' rights as guaranteed by the Privacy Act of 1974. In light of this, officials from 14 states have launched a major legal challenge, asserting that Musk's authority is unconstitutional. They have invoked constitutional provisions to contest the actions of Musk's administration and insisted that only duly nominated officials should be granted such powers. The Treasury Department's Inspector General has initiated an audit of the security measures surrounding the federal government’s payment system as well, responding to growing fears around the effects of DOGE's data access. This audit will review compliance on transactions over the past two years, coinciding with claims of abuse of power and unauthorized data access by Musk's administration. Senators have voiced concerns regarding the handling of sensitive information by agencies like the CDC and IRS, given the broad powers Musk has claimed in order to identify inefficiencies in the government. While the legal battles unfold, public response remains divided. Musk maintains that his efforts are aimed at eliminating waste, fraud, and inefficiency within government operations. However, critics argue that he has assumed an unaccountable role, jeopardizing the privacy of millions of Americans and federal workers. As litigation progresses and more audits are commissioned, the true impact of DOGE’s actions on governmental integrity and citizens' rights continues to evolve, raising pressing questions about the future of oversight and accountability in government practices.