A federal judge has imposed limitations on the access to a Treasury Department payments system that certain Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel had gained. The ruling, issued in response to a lawsuit from labor unions, restricts access to payment records and systems maintained by the Bureau of Fiscal Service. Two DOGE-linked workers have been granted read-only access as needed for their duties. The judge's decision aims to protect the privacy of millions of individuals' personal information contained within federal records.

Restrictions on System Access

The court's order significantly curtails the ability of DOGE surrogates to interact with sensitive financial systems. It ensures that only authorized personnel can access critical data, thereby safeguarding personal information. The ruling specifically prohibits the provision of access to any payment record or payment system of records maintained by the Bureau of Fiscal Service. This action addresses concerns raised by labor unions about potential misuse of personal data.

Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly’s decision came in response to allegations that Secretary Scott Bessent allowed Elon Musk and his DOGE surrogates unrestricted access to personal information of millions who transact with the federal government. The Privacy Act of 1974 and the Internal Revenue Code’s protections for taxpayer information were cited as key legal frameworks. The judge ruled that Tom Krause and Marko Elez, two DOGE-connected employees, could retain read-only access as necessary for their duties. However, Elez reportedly resigned following revelations about his past social media activity. Additional access was reserved for Treasury employees with a legitimate need and those entitled under federal statutes.

Public and Political Backlash

The judge’s ruling has sparked significant public and political reactions. Demonstrations outside the Treasury Department highlighted growing concerns over data security and unauthorized access. Protesters voiced strong opposition to Musk’s influence, emphasizing fears of compromised personal information. Lawmakers have also joined the chorus, calling for immediate action to protect citizens’ data.

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the White House, expressing their dissatisfaction with DOGE’s involvement. Signs like “America: We’ve been hacked” and “Impeach President Musk” underscored the public’s frustration. Prominent Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Chuck Schumer, Sen. Ed Markey, and Rep. Jamie Raskin, addressed the crowd, reinforcing the message that no one elected Musk to interfere with government operations. Sen. Ron Wyden, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee, demanded transparency from the administration regarding DOGE’s activities. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding taxpayer information and ensuring that proper measures are in place to prevent unauthorized access.