(DailyAnswer.org) – A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against Elon Musk’s DOGE team, blocking access to sensitive Social Security data, leaving many questioning the implications for personal privacy.
At a Glance
- Federal judge blocks Elon Musk’s DOGE from accessing Social Security data.
- Judge Ellen Hollander orders the deletion of any identifiable data DOGE obtained.
- Labor unions express concerns over violations of privacy laws.
- This move comes amidst a resignation at the Social Security Administration.
Privacy Concerns and Legal Action
U.S. District Judge Ellen Hollander in Maryland has ordered Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to halt its access to Social Security Administration systems. This decision temporarily prevents DOGE from obtaining personal data of millions of Americans, including Social Security numbers and banking records. The restrictive order came after labor unions and the SSA head voiced major concerns regarding the safety of personal data under DOGE’s scrutiny.
Lawsuits challenged the legality of the actions taken by DOGE, with Judge Hollander describing it as an unjustified “fishing expedition.” Reports reveal DOGE’s aggressive data collection tactics lacking substantial grounds, raising concerns over potential infringements on privacy. These legal challenges have pressured the team to cease further data collection and erase previously gathered information.
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Criticism of DOGE’s Practices
The decision shines a light on the consistent fear over DOGE’s methodology. Judge Hollander emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “The DOGE Team is essentially engaged in a fishing expedition at SSA, in search of a fraud epidemic, based on little more than suspicion.”
The White House voiced its discontent, critiquing the judgment as an obstacle to plans for reducing governmental inefficiency. Despite contention, Judge Hollander remained adamant about the serious intrusions into personal privacy presented by DOGE’s actions, emphasizing her skepticism about lawful compliance in accessing sensitive information.
Judge BLOCKS DOGE from getting Social Security records
Federal judge says 'DOGE Team essentially engaged in a fishing expedition at SSA'
New restraining order is temporary pic.twitter.com/3dfrbykoZ3
— RT (@RT_com) March 20, 2025
Resignations and Reactions
The legal action against DOGE aligned with recent upheaval in Social Security leadership, following the resignation of former acting SSA head Michelle King, opposing DOGE’s aggressive data pursuit. The new head, Leland Dudek, supports DOGE’s mission, reflecting internal divides seen throughout the administration.
Elon Musk’s team faced substantial opposition, leading labor representatives to celebrate. AFSCME President Lee Saunders praised the ruling: “This is a major win for working people and retirees across the country. The court saw that Elon Musk and his unqualified lackeys present a grave danger to Social Security.”
The implications for privacy laws and governmental oversight remain significant, as the judiciary steps in to regulate technology’s role in managing sensitive data. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for future cases involving data security and privacy rights amid governmental oversight initiatives.
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