The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, recently gained access to sensitive Treasury data. This includes crucial payment systems for Social Security and Medicare. According to two sources familiar with the situation, this development took place on Saturday.

Task Force’s Goals

DOGE was established under President Donald Trump with the objective of cutting government spending. Specifically, the task force aims to reduce the federal workforce, eliminate programs, and slash regulations. Consequently, this new access to Treasury data grants DOGE broad control over critical taxpayer information.

Impact on Foreign Aid

Meanwhile, U.S. foreign aid programs are facing challenges. For instance, in Uganda, millions of children have benefited from a U.S.-supported education initiative. Additionally, U.S. aid has helped flood victims in South Sudan avoid the spread of cholera. However, after Trump returned to office, he froze most foreign assistance for a three-month review. As a result, this uncertainty has already impacted some of the world’s most vulnerable populations.

Concerns Raised by Lawmakers

Following these developments, Ron Wyden, a senior Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, voiced concerns. He sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, questioning the potential misuse of payment systems by Musk’s team. Wyden cautioned, “These payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy.”

Resignation at the Treasury

Additionally, David Lebryk, the Acting Deputy Secretary of the Treasury, resigned after more than three decades of service. His resignation came after DOGE requested access to sensitive Treasury data. In his resignation letter, Lebryk acknowledged the importance of his department’s functions but did not mention DOGE’s request.

Musk’s Response

In response to Lebryk’s resignation, Musk posted on his social media platform, X. He claimed that Treasury payment officers had been instructed to approve payments to known fraudulent or terrorist groups. However, Musk did not provide any proof to support this claim.

Leadership Change in DOGE

Initially, Musk co-led DOGE with Vivek Ramaswamy. Their goal was to cut billions from the federal budget and reduce the size of the federal workforce. However, Ramaswamy has since left DOGE as he considers running for governor of Ohio.