Supreme Court restores DOGEs access to sensitive Social Security data and says it doesnt have to turn over documents
CNN21 hrs
Supreme Court Allows DOGE Access to Social Security Data
Above: A person rests in front of the U.S. Supreme Court on June 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Image copyright: Andrew Harnik/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This ruling represents a crucial victory for government efficiency and transparency efforts. DOGE needs comprehensive access to Social Security data to identify waste, fraud, and abuse in a system that pays out $1.6 trillion annually. The lower court's restrictions would have crippled DOGE's ability to modernize outdated systems and root out improper payments to deceased individuals and unauthorized recipients.
Democratic narrative
The decision creates grave privacy risks for millions of Americans by allowing unfettered access to highly sensitive personal information before courts determine whether such access is lawful. The administration failed to demonstrate any urgent need that would justify bypassing established privacy protections and background check requirements that have safeguarded Social Security data for decades.