Judges to Rule on Musk's DOGE Team Access to Treasury Systems

Federal judges will decide if Elon Musk's DOGE team can access Treasury systems crucial for government payments. Democrats claim the team lacks legal access, potentially risking sensitive data. Judges Paul Engelmayer and John Bates will hear arguments, as unions and states seek to block the access.

Two federal judges are set to determine on Friday if Elon Musk's cost-saving team, DOGE, will be granted access to the Treasury Department's payment systems. This access includes potentially sensitive data from U.S. health, consumer protection, and labor agencies.

Musk's involvement comes as a part of President Donald Trump's initiative to cut government spending, with the DOGE team already having reviewed several agencies since Trump's election. In Manhattan, U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer will address concerns from Democratic attorneys regarding the legality of DOGE accessing these systems, which are integral for processing federal payments.

Meanwhile, in Washington, U.S. District Judge John Bates will hear arguments from unions worried about Musk's team accessing sensitive records from the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. As lawsuits continue to emerge, both sides brace for decisions that could impact major government programs and federal funding.

(With inputs from agencies.)