Court Halts Musk's Access to Treasury Data

A federal court has temporarily blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing the U.S. Treasury's sensitive financial systems. This decision came after a lawsuit filed by a coalition of Democratic attorneys general, led by Letitia James, highlighting concerns over potential misuse of data and cybersecurity threats. The injunction restricts DOGE's access to critical payment systems handling Social Security, tax refunds, and federal employee salaries.

Musk's team, composed largely of former employees from his companies like SpaceX and Tesla, was tasked with cutting government expenditure. However, their Silicon Valley approach of rapid action and structure circumvention has raised alarm. The court's decision reflects fears of irreparable harm from potential data breaches and unauthorized access to personal information.

The controversial DOGE initiative, championed by President Trump, aims to streamline government functions but has faced legal challenges over transparency and ethics. As the White House supports Musk's cost-cutting measures, the court's ruling serves as a critical check on DOGE's expansive reach into federal financial systems. Further hearings are scheduled to determine the full extent of DOGE's authority.