Fri Feb 07 03:33:47 UTC 2025: ## Musk Allies’ Access to US Payment Systems Sparks Lawsuit Threat
**Washington, D.C. – February 7, 2025** – Thirteen state attorneys general are vowing to sue Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to prevent access to sensitive federal payment data. The legal action, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James, comes after a federal judge granted limited “read-only” access to two Musk allies, but denied access to Musk himself.
The attorneys general argue that DOGE’s access is unlawful and threatens the privacy of millions of Americans who rely on federal payments for essential programs like Social Security and Medicare. They claim DOGE sought this access to block payments, citing concerns about the potential for security risks and missed payments.
The controversy surrounds President Trump’s appointment of Musk to streamline the U.S. government. Critics, including Democratic members of Congress, accuse Musk of wielding excessive power and using DOGE to exert undue influence over federal funds, including attempts to halt funding to the U.S. Agency for International Development. Musk, meanwhile, has defended DOGE’s actions on social media, claiming it is saving taxpayer money.
A federal judge’s order granting limited access to two of Musk’s associates is considered a temporary measure, with the broader legal battle still to unfold. The Democratic attorneys general are expected to file their lawsuit in the coming days. The White House has yet to comment on the developing situation.
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