Unions seek court order to block DOGE's access to Social Security data of millions of Americans

Labor unions, backed by a retirees' group, have filed a motion in federal court to prevent DOGE from accessing vast amounts of personal data held by the Social Security Administration. They argue that the department’s intent is unclear, and the potential risks to citizens' privacy are too great. The unions contend that DOGE is demanding unrestricted access to critical data, with no clear explanation of why or what it needs. The lawsuit, filed in Maryland, highlights the growing fears over the department's broad reach and lack of transparency.

The unions’ attorney, Karianne Jones, voiced strong concerns about the scope of the data DOGE seeks. She described the department’s actions as “bullying” and expressed alarm that DOGE is attempting to gain access to everything, from private taxpayer information to source code, with little accountability. Tiffany Flick, a former senior official at the Social Security Administration, confirmed that civil servants within the agency are actively trying to prevent unauthorized access, fearing for the security of Americans' private data. The vague nature of DOGE’s demands only intensifies these concerns.

This latest legal battle adds to the mounting criticism of DOGE’s actions across federal agencies. The department’s aggressive cost-cutting measures and sweeping staff reductions have already sparked nearly two dozen lawsuits, with several judges questioning its tactics. While DOGE argues that its aim is to root out waste and fraud, its lack of transparency regarding its operations and objectives has raised significant alarm, particularly regarding access to sensitive data. Despite privacy concerns, some judges have refrained from fully blocking the department’s efforts.

The Social Security Administration is under significant pressure to streamline its operations as part of the Trump administration’s broader push to shrink the federal workforce. However, the unions are particularly worried about the agency’s cuts to staffing levels and the potential impacts on benefits for millions of recipients. The lawsuit highlights how these cuts, coupled with DOGE’s demands for data, could destabilize services and compromise sensitive personal information. As the case unfolds, more scrutiny is expected on the potential long-term effects of such sweeping changes to federal agencies.