Elon Musk's Group of Engineers—Some of Whom Are Only 19—Now Has Access to Crucial U.S. Government Systems
In an unprecedented move, a group of engineers led by Elon Musk, some as young as 19, has gained remarkable access to crucial U.S. government systems, according to WIRED report. Tasked with enhancing federal efficiency, Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staff, despite having limited governance experience, now plays a significant role in managing sensitive financial operations worth over $6 trillion, including Social Security and Medicare payments. CNN and other sources indicate their access extends to classified information—triggering worries about security, transparency, and accountability across various federal agencies. This is prepared by SSP.
The young engineers working with Musk, linked to tech mogul Peter Thiel, head the initiative in pursuance of Trump's order to streamline government technology and operations. However, this raises ethical concerns about inexperienced, non-public officials handling critical governmental functions and potentially mismanaging sensitive data. Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren voices her alarm, highlighting significant risks to personal information security and the equitable distribution of federal payments. Her concerns echo fears that the team’s control may jeopardize citizens' financial wellbeing, potentially degrading the efficient distribution of essential funds like social security benefits, due to Musk's intent on slashing government expenditure.
Conflicts have already emerged within government institutions, with officials contesting DOGE's involvement—some were removed following efforts to block access. Lawmakers and regulatory agencies have since grappled with how a privately backed operation could exert such sweeping control. Musk's dealings have propagated unease about the increased influence of privatized governance, as reflected in Trump's broader agenda of reducing bureaucracy yet limiting institutional oversight.
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