Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) expanded its influence on Friday as three Musk aides joined the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as senior advisors. Musk, appointed by President Donald Trump to downsize the federal government, had previously called for eliminating the CFPB, arguing it duplicated other agencies’ work.
Musk also targeted USAID, leading to the removal of its headquarters signage. A judge temporarily blocked the administration from dismantling USAID and placing 2,200 employees on leave, following lawsuits from labor unions. However, over 65,000 federal workers have already accepted Trump’s buyout offer, despite another court ruling pausing the plan.
Trump praised Musk’s efforts, saying, “No agency is off-limits.” DOGE members have entered multiple federal agencies, causing unrest among workers. Some Musk aides reportedly sought access to sensitive systems without prior notice.
In Washington, federal prosecutor Ed Martin launched an investigation into government employees Musk accused of theft and threats. Meanwhile, three DOGE staff were also placed in the Energy Department, though officials confirmed they lack security clearances for nuclear secrets.
Musk, a “special government employee” without a salary, remains a key figure in Trump’s push to overhaul the federal workforce. Democrats and unions have condemned his unchecked power, warning of widespread disruptions within government agencies.
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