A federal judge issued a sweeping block on most Trump administration officials, including Elon Musk and allies, from accessing sensitive Treasury records. This restriction will last at least a week, pending legal proceedings in New York.
Legal Battle Overview
The Manhattan-based U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer took action following an emergency request by 19 Democratic attorneys general. Their concern was the potential risk posed by Musk's allies' attempts to control Treasury's sensitive payment systems. These systems hold personal data of millions of Americans and government financial transactions.
Engelmayer agreed with the states' assessment that sudden policy changes by the Trump administration increased the risk of data exposure or system hacking. The judge deemed the new arrangement likely legally improper.
While a federal judge in Washington already restricted access to the system to specific individuals, Engelmayer's order goes further. It now limits access to civil servants who have passed security clearances and training required by law.
Further Restrictions and Orders
The judge specifically prohibited political appointees or special government employees associated with Musk from accessing the system. Additionally, he mandated the immediate destruction of any downloaded material by newly restricted officials.
These legal interventions are part of efforts to block the Trump administration's rapid changes, particularly led by Musk's DOGE office. Other recent court actions have halted attempts to dismantle agencies and implement controversial policies.
While Engelmayer issued the emergency order, the case will be overseen by U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas, a recent appointee of President Joe Biden.
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