1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the significant harm it is causing. While eliminating government waste is important, DOGE’s reckless cost-cutting measures are undermining essential public services, endangering national security, and operating in legally questionable ways. I urge you to take action to rein in this agency before more damage is done. Questionable Legal Basis and Musk’s Role DOGE’s authority appears to rest on dubious legal grounds, raising serious concerns about executive overreach. There is no clear constitutional or statutory basis for an unelected private citizen—Elon Musk—to wield such influence over an executive branch function. His involvement in directing DOGE’s policies while also leading private companies with federal contracts presents obvious conflicts of interest. The lack of oversight over his role further undermines transparency and accountability in government decision-making. Contradictions in Legal Authority DOGE appears to be bypassing congressional authority by withholding or redirecting congressionally approved funds, potentially violating the Impoundment Control Act. Additionally, reports indicate that DOGE is accessing sensitive Social Security data using AI tools, raising serious privacy and due process concerns. If the executive branch can unilaterally establish agencies with this level of unchecked power, what prevents future administrations from using similar tactics to dismantle essential government functions without congressional approval? Economic and National Security Risks Beyond its legal issues, DOGE’s reckless downsizing threatens to eliminate hundreds of thousands of federal jobs, harming families and local economies. It also puts public health and national security at risk by cutting budgets for agencies like the FDA and intelligence services, weakening our ability to prevent crises and protect American citizens. Congress Must Act Now I urge you to demand full oversight of DOGE, challenge the legal basis of Musk’s role, and support legislation like the BAD DOGE Act and LEASH DOGE Act to restore checks and balances. Additionally, Congress must use its budgetary authority to ensure DOGE cannot continue unchecked. Please respond with your position on this issue and what actions you will take to address these dangers.