Democrats concerned DOGE is targeting NOAA, sources say
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Democrats Express Alarm Over Musk's Access to Federal Data
Above: Democrats rally in front of the US Treasury Department in protest of Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency on Feb. 4, 2025. Image copyright: Anna Rose Layden/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
US Senate Intelligence Committee Democrats in a letter warned the White House that Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has gained unprecedented access to classified materials and sensitive federal databases, including intelligence reports at USAID and personal information through Social Security and Medicare records.
Also, Democratic lawmakers sent letters to various Trump administration figures demanding explanations for how DOGE personnel's access to secure government spaces and data systems complies with US law and national security interests. They requested responses by Feb. 14.
This comes as the House Democrats' attempt to subpoena Musk to testify about DOGE's activities was blocked by Republicans in a 20-19 party-line vote in the House Oversight Committee.
The Spin
Democratic narrative
Without any transparency, Musk, an unelected billionaire, has gained unauthorized access to sensitive government systems and personal data of millions of Americans. DOGE is potentially jeopardizing national security and violating federal law while also dismantling vital government agencies without proper oversight.
Republican narrative
DOGE is fulfilling Trump's campaign promise to eliminate government waste and increase efficiency. There are proper oversight and security measures in place, including making sure DOGE has read-only access and necessary clearances. Democrats should stop overreacting with their inflammatory rhetoric.
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