Elon Musk’s Firm Granted Unfettered Access to US Payment System
Senator Ron Wyden confirmed that Elon Musk’s “department of government efficiency” has gained access to the Treasury’s highly sensitive payment system, a database containing the personal data of millions of Americans and details on government contractors. This access, granted by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, includes Social Security and Medicare benefits, grants, and contractor payments. Wyden raised serious concerns about the national security implications and potential conflicts of interest stemming from Musk’s business interests and the risk of politically motivated data manipulation. The granting of access follows the retirement of a high-ranking Treasury official who reportedly opposed it.
John Q. Hosedrinker