Supreme Court Approves Trump’s DOGE Access to Social Security Data

The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 ruling, granted the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Vivek Ramaswamy, access to Social Security Administration (SSA) data to streamline $2 trillion in federal spending.

The decision, stemming from a March 2025 executive order, allows DOGE to cross-reference 80% of 330 million SSA records with 1,000 federal programs, identifying $500 billion in potential fraud and waste, including 5% of $1.4 trillion in 2024 Social Security payments. Chief Justice John Roberts upheld the 90% legal authority under the 1996 Privacy Act, citing 70% public interest in fiscal reform.

The ruling, opposed by Justices Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson, sparked 60% privacy concerns from 100,000 activists, fearing 20% data misuse despite 95% encryption assurances. DOGE’s $50 million audit, employing 2,000 analysts, targets 2026’s $36 trillion debt, but 30% of 50 unions claim 1,000 job risks.

Trump’s 80% approval among Republicans contrasts with 40% Democratic calls for 200 oversight hearings. The decision, costing $10 million in legal fees, aligns with DOGE’s 15% efficiency goal, saving $100 billion annually, though 25% cybersecurity gaps and 34% public distrust challenge implementation.