Elon Musk’s Aides Lock Civil Servants Out of Key U.S. Data Systems

Aides to Elon Musk, appointed to lead the U.S. government’s human resources agency, have locked out career civil servants from critical computer systems containing personal data of millions of federal workers. These systems include a vast database with sensitive information like Social Security numbers, birthdates, pay grades, and addresses.

Musk’s Role in Downsizing the Bureaucracy

Since President Donald Trump took office, he has moved to downsize the federal bureaucracy. In fact, Musk was tasked with reducing the 2.2 million-strong civilian workforce. He quickly filled key positions at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) with his allies.

Access to Data Systems Revoked

According to two anonymous OPM officials, senior employees had their access to data systems revoked. Consequently, they expressed concern about the lack of oversight and potential cybersecurity risks. “We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems. That is creating great concern. There is no oversight,” one official said.

No Access to Employee Data

Although affected employees can still access email, they can no longer view critical data on federal workers. As a result, this has sparked concerns about transparency and control within the agency.

OPM’s Unconventional Memos

In addition to these changes, OPM has sent out memos encouraging civil servants to consider quitting or taking a vacation. These memos have a casual tone, urging workers to take a “dream destination” vacation. “We are finding out about these memos the same time as the rest of the world,” said one OPM official.

Musk’s Influence Extends Beyond OPM

Moreover, Musk’s influence is growing across the government. His aides have also caused disruption at the U.S. Treasury Department. Reports suggest that Treasury’s top official, David Lebryk, is leaving after a clash with Musk’s team over access to payment systems.

Key Figures in OPM Leadership

The new OPM leadership includes several former Musk associates. For example, Brian Bjelde, a former SpaceX executive, now serves as a senior adviser. Amanda Scales, another former Musk employee, is OPM’s chief of staff. Furthermore, Riccardo Biasini, a former Tesla engineer, is also a senior adviser at OPM.

Concerns Over Lack of Oversight

Finally, Don Moynihan, a public policy professor, raised concerns over the lack of congressional oversight at OPM. “This makes it much harder for anyone outside Musk’s inner circle at OPM to know what’s going on,” he said.