Government watchdogs have launched inquiries related to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s decision to allow associates of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency team access to the federal government’s systems controlling trillions of dollars of payments.
Government Watchdogs Investigate Allegations
Loren Sciurba, Treasury’s acting inspector general, stated in a letter to lawmakers that an audit on the ‘adequacy of controls’ over sensitive payment systems is underway. The review will also focus on any allegations of improper or fraudulent payments, particularly those made by the Bureau of the Fiscal Service. Musk’s claims of fraudulent payments without evidence have triggered this investigation.
The audit is expected to be completed by August, with interim updates if critical issues arise before then. The Government Accountability Office has also initiated an examination into reports of DOGE employees gaining ‘unprecedented access’ to the federal payment system.
Response from Government Officials
Treasury officials have emphasized that DOGE’s access to the payment system is part of a comprehensive study aimed at improving efficiency and reducing fraud. However, concerns have been raised by Democrats about political interference in critical payment systems.
Recent revelations about a DOGE Treasury employee being briefly granted the power to alter federal payment systems have added to the scrutiny. Despite this, Treasury officials maintain that the agency is committed to rectifying any lapses and ensuring the security of the payment systems.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigations by government watchdogs and the scrutiny over DOGE’s access to the Treasury payments system highlight the importance of maintaining integrity and security in financial systems. Stay tuned for further developments in this evolving story.
