Two House Democrats, Reps. Judy Chu and Gwen Moore, unexpectedly entered House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office during a scheduled meeting with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and House Ways and Means Chair Jason Smith, demanding to know why Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency team had access to federal payment system data at the Treasury Department. According to a witness, despite the lawmakers’ aggressive approach, Speaker Johnson graciously allowed them into his office to hear their concerns.
The confrontation occurred on the same day Republicans blocked a Democratic attempt to subpoena Mr. Musk, who was recently appointed as a special government employee. Although Treasury Secretary Bessent had already departed when the Democrats arrived, they managed to meet with Speaker Johnson. Rep. Moore expressed particular concern that even the Speaker seemed uncertain about the extent of Mr. Musk’s access to sensitive taxpayer data.
The Democratic lawmakers raised specific concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive taxpayer information, the level of access granted to Mr. Musk’s associates and their intended use of the information. In response, Speaker Johnson indicated that the House Ways and Means Committee would hold a hearing on the matter the following week.
The incident highlights growing tensions between Democrats and Republicans over Mr. Musk’s involvement in government operations.
Read more: ‘Unhinged’ Democrats barge into Speaker’s office, demand answers on DOGE’s access to Treasury data
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