The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has gained expanded access to key financial data from several federal agencies after a court victory on Tuesday. In a significant move, Musk’s DOGE team member, Gavin Kliger, a software engineer, is set to receive access to sensitive IRS operations, causing concerns over the extent of DOGE’s influence.
The IRS is preparing to appoint Kliger as a senior adviser to the acting commissioner, although details are still being finalized. This has raised alarms, as some fear it could set a dangerous precedent for political appointees accessing confidential taxpayer information. Concerns include potential misuse, such as targeting political opponents or leaking private data. Democratic Senators and former Treasury officials have voiced concerns, calling for transparency on DOGE’s access.
Though critics argue that Musk’s new authority grants him unprecedented control, others point out the irony that tax data leaks have happened before, such as a 2021 leak affecting Musk. President Trump supports Musk’s efforts to eliminate government inefficiency, with a focus on cutting waste, fraud, and abuse.
A recent court ruling denied Democratic state attorneys’ request to limit DOGE’s access. Judge Tanya Chutkan emphasized that without clear evidence of harm, the court could not impose restrictions. The ongoing legal battles are set to continue, with DOGE’s power still under scrutiny.