Elon Musk’s Expanding Influence in Government Sparks Democratic Alarm
Elon Musk is rapidly consolidating power within the federal government, backed by President Donald Trump’s administration. His growing influence has sparked outrage among Democrats, who accuse him of sidelining career officials, gaining access to sensitive data, and dismantling key government programs—all without congressional approval.
Musk’s Unprecedented Role in Government
In just over two weeks since Trump took office, Musk has established an alternative power structure within the federal government. As a special government employee, he is subject to fewer ethics and financial disclosure rules. Trump has given Musk an office inside the White House complex, where he oversees the Department of Government Efficiency—a team deployed across federal agencies to cut spending and remove employees.
On Monday, members of Musk’s team were spotted at the Department of Education, which Trump has vowed to abolish. The speed and scale of these changes have shocked Washington.
Trump Defends Musk’s Role
Despite growing concerns, Trump insists Musk is acting with his approval.
“Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval,” Trump told reporters from the Oval Office.
The president also dismissed concerns about Musk’s conflicts of interest, even though Musk’s businesses—Tesla, SpaceX, and X—face federal scrutiny and hold government contracts.
“Where we think there’s a conflict or a problem, we won’t let him go near it, but he has some very good ideas,” Trump said.
Democrats Sound the Alarm
Democrats see Musk’s growing influence as a coup from within, accusing him of seizing unaccountable and illegal power.
“We will do everything in our power to stop this outrage,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). “Since our Republican colleagues won’t help us, we’re taking this fight to the courts to uphold the rule of law.”
The most drastic move yet came on Monday at USAID, the U.S. Agency for International Development. Musk ordered the agency to be shut down, calling it a “ball of worms.” Employees were locked out of their computers, and yellow police tape blocked the entrance to its Washington headquarters.
Federal Workers Face Uncertainty
Musk has also targeted the General Services Administration (GSA), which manages federal buildings. An internal email last week ordered the termination of 7,500 office leases nationwide.
This effort is being led by Nicole Hollander, who describes herself as an X employee on LinkedIn.
“This is out of control. This is not normal,” said Keya Chatterjee, executive director of Free DC, who protested outside the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on Monday.
Federal employees fear losing access to their records, including pay history and qualifications. Some agencies have advised workers to download their SF-50 forms to personal computers to ensure proof of employment.
Musk Gains Access to Treasury’s Payment System
One of Musk’s most controversial moves has been obtaining access to the U.S. Treasury’s payment system, responsible for processing $5 trillion in payments annually, including Social Security and federal salaries.
“No one outside of the Treasury staff has ever had access to this system,” said Richard Gregg, former fiscal assistant secretary at the Treasury Department.
Democrats are demanding Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revoke Musk’s access, calling it an unprecedented breach of financial security.
“That’s the biggest data hack ever,” said Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI).
A coalition of retirees and union workers sued the Treasury Department on Monday, seeking to block the sharing of financial data with Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.
Trump Rewards Musk’s Loyalty
Musk’s rapid ascent in government appears to be a reward for his support of Trump’s campaign. He contributed $250 million to America PAC, which funded door-to-door canvassing and digital advertising for Trump.
Musk has hinted at using his influence to endorse primary challenges against Republican lawmakers who oppose Trump’s agenda.
“The more I’ve gotten to know President Trump, the more I like him,” Musk said in a live-streamed conversation on X. “Frankly, I love the guy. He’s great.”
A Pivotal Moment in American Politics
Musk has framed his federal overhaul as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity:
“This is our shot. This is the best hand of cards we’re ever going to have. If we don’t take advantage of it now, it will never happen.”
As Musk continues reshaping the government with Trump’s backing, legal and political battles loom over the limits of presidential power. The future of the federal workforce—and the nation’s institutions—hangs in the balance.
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