Judge blocks DOGE access, social security operations continue
- A federal judge ruled to block Doge affiliates from accessing sensitive SSA data, citing privacy concerns.
- Leland Dudek initially threatened to shut down SSA operations but later backed down following judicial clarification.
- The ruling raises significant implications for ongoing government efficiency efforts and the protection of citizen data.
In the United States, a legal battle involving the Social Security Administration (SSA) intensified following a ruling affecting the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge). On March 20, 2025, U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander issued a temporary restraining order blocking Doge affiliates from accessing sensitive SSA data. This ruling arose from a lawsuit by various unions that argued Doge's access was in violation of laws protecting private information such as Social Security numbers and medical records. The judge characterized the actions of the Doge Team as a 'fishing expedition' without clear justification for their data access needs. In response to the ruling, Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek threatened to terminate access for all SSA employees, fearing they could be classified as Doge affiliates. He indicated that the broad nature of the restraining order could impede essential operations at the agency, potentially delaying payments to millions of beneficiaries reliant on Social Security. Dudek, previously part of the agency's anti-fraud team, expressed frustration at the implications of the ruling while maintaining that it could disrupt the SSA's ability to function effectively. Days after his initial threat, Dudek received clarification from Judge Hollander stating that the order did not apply to all SSA employees, only those working directly with Doge. In his follow-up statements, Dudek walked back his earlier threat, confirming that SSA operations would continue uninterrupted under the legal guidance provided. He remarked that he would adhere to the court's instructions and emphasized the agency's ongoing commitment to serve beneficiaries while complying with legal standards surrounding data access. This event highlights the ongoing tensions between President Donald Trump's administration and judicial oversight, especially concerning government efficiency initiatives. The situation at the SSA has broader implications as it reflects challenges faced by federal agencies attempting to balance efficiency improvements with essential privacy protections. The outcome of this legal dispute could impact how data is accessed and managed across various federal departments and shape future efficiency proposals put forth by the government.