A new Treasury Department assessment has raised serious alarms over Elon Musk’s access to federal payment systems, calling it the “single greatest threat risk” facing the agency. The warning comes as Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) faces mounting legal and political scrutiny over its role in handling critical government financial operations.
Why Is Musk’s Access a Concern?
Under Musk’s leadership, DOGE was given unprecedented control over parts of the Treasury’s payment infrastructure, which is responsible for distributing trillions of dollars in government funds—including Social Security payments, federal contracts, and essential public services.
Critics warn that this level of access could allow Musk’s team to alter, delay, or even cancel payments without traditional oversight, potentially disrupting federal financial operations and putting millions of Americans at risk.
Court Ruling Limits Musk’s Treasury Access
In response to growing concerns, a federal judge issued a ruling restricting DOGE’s access to the Treasury’s payment systems. The decision bars political appointees and special government employees from directly interacting with these systems, limiting access to civil servants with security clearances.
The court order comes after a lawsuit was filed by multiple states, arguing that DOGE’s involvement could compromise financial security and taxpayer data. Lawmakers from both parties have also voiced concerns about the lack of oversight in Musk’s expanding government role.
Congress Steps In With New Legislation
In addition to the court ruling, Congress is now moving to further restrict Musk’s financial influence. Representative Haley Stevens, alongside more than 140 lawmakers, has introduced the Taxpayer Data Protection Act, which would prevent the Treasury Secretary from granting payment system access to anyone outside of qualified government officials or contractors.
Lawmakers backing the bill argue that it’s necessary to protect federal funds from external influence and ensure transparency in government financial operations.
What Happens Next?
With legal battles unfolding and Congress working to rein in DOGE’s power, Musk’s role in government financial systems remains highly controversial. Supporters argue that his leadership can streamline government efficiency, but opponents warn that the risks far outweigh the benefits.
As Treasury officials work to tighten security and restore oversight, the debate over Musk’s involvement in federal financial management is likely to intensify in the coming months.