The Trump administration has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to urgently intervene in a growing legal battle. On Friday, officials requested that the court allow Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to gain access to Social Security data.
This marks the administration’s first emergency appeal involving DOGE’s rapid work inside federal agencies. The department, formed under Musk’s guidance, has moved aggressively to review government operations.
However, a Maryland federal judge recently blocked DOGE from accessing Social Security systems. That ruling cited strict federal privacy protections. The systems contain highly sensitive information about millions of Americans.
According to court filings, these databases include school records, financial details, salaries, and even mental health histories. These are especially relevant for people receiving disability benefits.
Still, the Trump administration insists that DOGE requires this data to expose government waste. Musk has described Social Security as a “Ponzi scheme” and labeled it as a top area of concern.
He has long argued that rooting out fraud in the program would lead to major budget savings. Although Musk is preparing to exit his role at DOGE, his influence on its mission remains strong.
Solicitor General John Sauer submitted the official appeal. He criticized the judge’s decision as overreach into executive authority. Sauer warned the restriction disrupts critical anti-fraud investigations.
“Without intervention,” Sauer wrote, “this order will encourage courts to interfere with internal government processes.”
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of DOGE’s continued efforts. He argued that access to Social Security data is essential for identifying systemic fraud.
As the case moves forward, both sides remain firmly divided. Privacy advocates stress the risks of mass data access. Meanwhile, Trump officials insist they need full visibility to clean up federal waste.
The Supreme Court now faces a pivotal decision. Observers believe this ruling could shape the future role of DOGE.
Whatever the outcome, the fight over access to Social Security data is far from over.
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