In a major legal move, a federal judge has temporarily blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing the U.S. Treasury's payment systems. 📵💰
U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer in Manhattan cited risks of sensitive information being improperly disclosed as the reason for the block. This decision came after 19 Democratic attorneys general from states across the country filed a lawsuit arguing that DOGE lacks the legal authority to tap into the Treasury's systems. 🏛️⚖️
Shortly after the ruling, Musk took to his social media platform, X, calling the decision \"absolutely insane!\" He emphasized that DOGE and the Treasury had agreed to new protocols for government payments, including adding rationales and categorization codes. According to Musk, these changes are being handled by government employees, not by DOGE. 📱🔥
The lawsuit highlighted serious cybersecurity concerns, warning that DOGE's access could jeopardize trillions in funding for essential programs like health clinics, preschools, and climate initiatives. The attorneys also expressed fears that the information could be exploited for political agendas. 🛡️🔒
Judge Engelmayer, appointed by former President Barack Obama, deemed the states' claims \"particularly strong\" and granted emergency relief pending a further hearing set for February 14. Under his order, political appointees and special government employees outside the Treasury are barred from accessing its payment and data systems and must destroy any materials they've already obtained. 🗓️✂️
This development marks a significant clash between tech mogul Elon Musk and U.S. state authorities, highlighting the ongoing tensions over access to government systems and data security. Stay tuned as this story unfolds! 🔍📰
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U.S. judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing Treasury payment systems
cgtn.com
