1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The actions of Elon Musk and his efficiency operation DOGE in cutting federal employees raise significant concerns. Musk has inserted himself into over a dozen agencies, wielding tremendous influence despite lacking official government authority. This overreach undermines democratic processes and principles of public service. Dismissing thousands of probationary employees across numerous agencies, including at the IRS, USDA, HHS, and others, will severely undermine the ability of these institutions to fulfill their vital missions. Agencies like the EPA and VA have seen diversity, equity and inclusion staff placed on leave or terminated, threatening progress on making these workplaces more equitable and inclusive. Most alarming is the targeting of watchdog agencies like the CFPB and USAID for complete dismantling. Gutting consumer protections and developmental aid jeopardizes both American citizens and global humanitarian efforts. The abrupt firing of inspectors general, civil liberties oversight staff, and ethics officials signals an assault on accountability that enables corruption. Musk's vested corporate interests in avoiding scrutiny from agencies that investigate his companies represent a clear conflict of interest that has no place in public service. His extreme ideological stances are antithetical to the principles of government for and by the people. I urge principled representatives to take action to remove Musk's influence from the federal government and restore its integrity in service of all Americans.