Democratic attorneys general from thirteen states, led by New York’s Letitia James, are preparing to sue Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency over accessing federal payment systems containing sensitive personal data of Americans. The attorneys general argue that this action is a violation of privacy rights and undermines essential funding for individuals and communities nationwide. The statement emphasized that no one, not even the richest man in the world, is above the law, and the President does not have the authority to disclose private information or interfere with approved federal payments.

Government officials and labor unions have expressed concerns about the potential security risks and payment disruptions that could result from DOGE’s involvement in federal payment systems. A federal judge has granted limited access to Treasury Department systems to two of Musk’s associates but has prevented Musk himself from accessing the data. The lawsuit filed by federal worker unions aims to halt what they perceive as a significant privacy breach.

The attorneys general, representing a coalition of states, are gearing up to challenge DOGE’s access to sensitive payment information within the Treasury Department. They argue that this unauthorized access is illegal and could jeopardize crucial payments that support essential programs like healthcare and childcare. Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, have raised alarm about Musk’s influence within the government and his actions that could disrupt payments to organizations.

DOGE officials purportedly sought access to the Treasury payment system to prevent funds from reaching the U.S. Agency for International Development, contradicting earlier claims that access was for auditing purposes only. The unfolding situation underscores the ongoing battle between government officials and Musk’s attempts to wield power within federal systems, prompting concerns about privacy, security, and accountability.