Trump Says U.S. Security At Risk?
President Donald Trump voiced serious concerns on Friday regarding the U.S.’s security measures, particularly when discussing the recent revelations about Elon Musk and his team from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) gaining access to sensitive federal data. Speaking at a press conference with Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Trump pointed out the glaring vulnerabilities in the country’s security systems, specifically highlighting how easily DOGE was able to gain access to personal information such as Social Security numbers.
“Well, they don’t really need to access Americans’ personal data,” Trump said. “But the fact is, they get it with little difficulty. It’s a big problem.” He added that the U.S. simply does not have strong enough security to protect such vital information.
This comment comes amidst growing scrutiny over Musk’s and DOGE’s involvement in federal affairs, as they push forward with their mission to cut down on bureaucratic inefficiency. Concerns are mounting, especially from Democrats, who are questioning how much power DOGE should wield over sensitive data and payment systems. Musk’s team is under the microscope after it was reported that DOGE employees accessed critical payment systems and forced the departure of a long-standing Treasury Department official.
Furthermore, the Treasury’s chief of staff allegedly considered using this access to freeze payments to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), sparking alarm among those concerned about misuse of the system. The White House and Treasury have since assured the public that the access given to DOGE staffers is strictly observational, and they are unable to alter or influence payments.
In response to these concerns, the Department of Justice intervened, restricting DOGE staff’s access to only “read-only” levels for sensitive systems. This move is meant to prevent any manipulation of the fiscal processes that manage a significant portion of federal payments.
This incident underscores the ongoing debate over government efficiency and security. Just as Trump initiated a federal hiring freeze upon taking office to reduce the size and cost of the federal workforce, Musk’s push for a leaner, more effective government is raising important questions about security, accountability, and the potential consequences of reducing bureaucratic oversight. The American people deserve both efficiency and security, and it’s clear that improving one should not come at the cost of the other.
