Taxpayer and Union Groups File Lawsuit Against Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency
A lawsuit was filed on Monday by multiple taxpayer and union groups, alleging that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had violated several laws in its efforts to uncover and eliminate wasteful government spending. The groups claim that DOGE had launched a “sweeping campaign to access highly-sensitive information systems” and had violated laws that limit executive power, protect civil servants, and safeguard citizens’ data held by the government.
DOGE, which was created earlier this year by an executive order, is a temporary organization within the White House with the task of optimizing the federal government, streamlining operations, and cutting spending in just 18 months.
Lawsuit Allegations Against DOGE’s Access to Sensitive Information Systems
The lawsuit highlights recent actions taken by DOGE at various government departments, including the Treasury, Labor, Education and Health departments, as well as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Personnel Management, and Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The groups argue that DOGE’s access to these sensitive information systems “lacks statutory authority.”
Specifically, the lawsuit claims that DOGE violated the Tax Reform Act, Privacy Act, and Administrative Procedures Act. The groups argue that the consequences of these actions have already been catastrophic. They express concern about DOGE having access to sensitive information such as social security numbers, individuals’ finances, and bank account details.
Access to Confidential Business Information and IRS Investigations
The lawsuit also asserts that DOGE will have access to confidential business information, tax records, and IRS investigations. This includes investigations or reports related to Elon Musk’s businesses or those of his competitors. The groups argue that no other business owner on the planet has access to this kind of information on their competitors, and for good reason.
Groups Seek Temporary Restraining Order and Review of DOGE’s Actions
The Center for Taxpayer Rights, Main Street Alliance, National Federation of Federal Employees, and Communications Workers of America, who filed the lawsuit, are seeking a temporary restraining order to maintain the status quo until the court has an opportunity to review DOGE and Musk’s actions. They are asking the court to declare DOGE’s access unlawful, halt its use of IRS systems, order the deletion of illegally obtained information, and establish new security protections.
Federal Judge Declines to Block DOGE’s Access to Government Data
On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan rejected a request for a temporary restraining order to block DOGE from accessing government data or firing federal employees. While noting the absence of evidence showing irreparable harm caused by DOGE’s access, Judge Chutkan questioned the unchecked authority of an unelected individual, referring to Musk. She also expressed concerns about DOGE’s accountability to Congress.
Democratic State Attorneys General Also Sue to Restrict DOGE’s Access to Federal Data
In a separate action, more than a dozen Democratic state attorneys general have filed a lawsuit seeking to temporarily restrict DOGE’s access to federal data about government employees. They have raised concerns about Musk’s access and power, stating that there is no greater threat to democracy than the concentration of state power in the hands of a single, unelected individual. The attorneys general from several states, including Arizona, California, Connecticut, and Washington, have joined the suit.
In conclusion, the lawsuit against DOGE raises serious allegations about the organization’s access to sensitive information systems and potential violations of laws protecting citizens’ data. The groups filing the lawsuit are seeking legal intervention to review DOGE’s actions and establish new security protections.
