Elon Musk Critiques Treasury Practices Amid DOGE Controversy

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has become embroiled in controversy following allegations of fraudulent Treasury payments. Reports suggest that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has gained access to the federal government’s payment system as the Trump administration continues its quest to eliminate wasteful government spending.

Allegations of Fraudulent Payments

On a recent Saturday, Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his outrage. He highlighted findings by the DOGE team indicating that payment approval officers in the Treasury had been instructed to approve payments indiscriminately, including to known fraudulent or even terrorist organizations. Musk’s tweet stated, “They literally never denied a payment in their entire career. Not even once.”

His comments came just before a report from the New York Times indicating that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had allowed DOGE personnel access to the federal payment system, which manages approximately trillion annually across various government agencies.

Political Reactions

Democratic Senator Ron Wyden from Oregon, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, provided corroborating information via social media. He stated that he had learned about DOGE’s extensive access to the payment system, which encompasses vital programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and various governmental contracts, some of which directly compete with Musk’s own business interests.

“Sources tell my office that Treasury Secretary Bessent has granted DOGE *full* access to this system,” Wyden posted on BlueSky, emphasizing the breadth of DOGE’s powers in influencing federal spending.

Cyclone of Controversy Around DOGE

This controversy unfolded amidst reports that David A. Lebryk, the former acting director of the Treasury, was preparing to leave his position following a disagreement over granting DOGE access to the payment system. Lebryk had assumed control of the Treasury during a transitional period, between Trump’s inauguration and Bessent’s confirmation.

In the wake of this revelation, numerous reports surfaced indicating that civil servants within the Office of Personnel Management were unable to access their computer systems due to actions taken by DOGE, further complicating the situation.

Musk’s Weekend Work Ethic

Musk humorously commented on the situation, noting that working through the weekend offers a distinct advantage, given that many in the bureaucracy take time off. “Very few in the bureaucracy actually work the weekend, so it’s like the opposing team just leaves the field for two days! Working the weekend is a superpower,” he quipped on X.

DOGE and its Anti-Fraud Mission

The genesis of DOGE can be traced back to an executive order signed by Trump on his very first day in office, envisioning a streamlined and efficient governmental approach to spending. The order mandates that various agency heads provide DOGE with comprehensive access to internal platforms, including software and IT systems.

The executive order explicitly states, “Agency Heads shall take all necessary steps … to ensure USDS has full and prompt access to all unclassified agency records, software systems, and IT systems.” This move was characterized by Trump and Musk as a crucial step towards rectifying the rampant overspending and inflation stressing the American economy.

Musk’s Views on Government Spending

In a previous interview with Trump on X, Musk discussed the root causes of inflation, attributing it largely to government overspending. “Inflation comes from government overspending because the checks never bounce when it’s written by the government,” he stated, accentuating the need for a government efficiency commission to analyze spending patterns.

DOGE’s Impact After Short Existence

Since its inception, DOGE has claimed significant progress towards cutting down federal expenses. The organization recently announced it had successfully eliminated over billion worth of expenditures linked to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Bridging Politics and Technology

The intersection of Musk’s technological expertise and Trump’s political agenda illuminates a unique relationship. It underscores a broader narrative of reforming government practices through technology and efficiency. This partnership appears aimed at minimizing bureaucratic inefficiencies, aligning with Musk’s long-held beliefs that reform is essential for economic stability.

Conclusion: A Continuing Saga

The unfolding situation surrounding DOGE, Treasury practices, and Musk’s indefatigable mission to reshape governmental operations presents a complex and evolving narrative. As the story develops, it highlights the intricate relationship between big tech, governmental efficiency, and the need for cleaner financial practices.

Fox News Digital reached out to both the White House and the Treasury Department for comments, but no immediate response was available at the time of publication.