The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, has been granted access to a pivotal federal system responsible for disbursing $6 trillion in annual payments, including Social Security and Medicare benefits. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent authorized this access, sparking debate over the potential implications for millions of Americans reliant on these services. The move coincides with efforts by the Trump administration to offer buyouts to federal employees, raising concerns about staffing and service continuity.
The Social Security Administration has historically faced challenges in service delivery, with average wait times for phone service reaching 45 minutes in 2024. Additionally, determinations for disability benefits took an average of 230 days in 2023. With the agency experiencing a 25-year staffing low, at least 20,000 federal employees have reportedly taken buyouts, though this figure remains unconfirmed by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
"Millions of Americans rely on these systems for Social Security checks, Medicare benefits, federal salaries, grants and tax refunds," said Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.
Concerns have been raised by Democratic lawmakers and advocacy groups about what DOGE's access could mean for federal payments and personal data security. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York, expressed apprehension over the potential impact on the Social Security Administration.
"Trump's buyout offer would have devastating consequences for the tens of millions of Americans who rely on Social Security," stated Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand.
Some experts argue that DOGE's involvement could lead to significant changes in how payments are managed. Dan Adcock from the National Committee highlighted the importance of these programs to vulnerable populations.
"These programs are the lifelines of millions of people and seniors with disabilities throughout the country," emphasized Dan Adcock.
"It all depends on what they [at DOGE] think is efficient and what isn't efficient," added Adcock.
Lindsay Owens from Groundwork Collaborative expressed alarm over the potential effects on federal contracts and foreign aid payments.
Owens described the situation as "a five-alarm fire for us."
Despite these concerns, a White House official dismissed worries about disruptions to Social Security and Medicare payments.
"Any payments going for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, those are not at odds with the president's executive order," assured the White House Official. "Any assertion otherwise is just a lie."
According to the Treasury Department, DOGE has only "read only" access to the payment system, and there have been no delays or rerouting of Social Security and Medicare payments. However, the broader implications of Musk's involvement remain under scrutiny as the February 6 deadline for federal workers to accept resignation offers approaches.
"The number of deferred resignations is rapidly growing, and we're expecting the largest spike to come 24-48 hours before the deadline," noted a U.S. Office of Personnel Management spokesperson.
"All DOGE is looking to do is restructure the payment system to reflect the President's goals and his mission, especially regarding the executive orders," stated a White House Official.