Elon Musk’s recent involvement in the U.S. government, particularly since the commencement of President Donald Trump’s second term, exemplifies a troubling concentration of power that challenges the foundational principles of our democracy. As a transgender woman and social activist, I am acutely aware of the marginalization faced by various communities. However, the current situation underscores a broader issue: the consolidation of authority in the hands of a wealthy few, making unilateral decisions that adversely affect countless individuals, especially those advocating for human rights.
Musk’s appointment to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an entity established by executive order, has led to a series of aggressive moves against established federal agencies. Notably, the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has resulted in the abrupt cessation of critical humanitarian aid programs, leaving vulnerable populations without essential support. This unilateral action not only disrupts global aid efforts but also raises significant constitutional concerns, as it bypasses congressional authority and undermines the system of checks and balances integral to our government.
The manner in which these actions have been executed is equally alarming. Reports indicate that Musk’s team has assumed control over key government departments, often sidelining or ousting career civil servants who express dissent. This hostile takeover of federal agencies has led to the termination of thousands of federal employees, many of whom have dedicated their careers to public service. The loss of these professionals not only disrupts governmental operations but also deprives the nation of invaluable expertise and institutional knowledge.
Furthermore, Musk’s access to sensitive government systems, such as the U.S. Treasury’s payment infrastructure, raises profound privacy and security concerns. The potential exposure of confidential taxpayer information to a private individual, without adequate oversight, is a stark violation of public trust and a deviation from established norms of governmental transparency and accountability.
These developments are particularly disheartening when considering the broader implications for human rights advocacy. Individuals who have dedicated their lives to promoting equity and justice now find themselves marginalized or removed from positions of influence, simply for supporting fundamental human rights. The erosion of support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within federal agencies not only undermines progress made in recent years but also signals a regression to exclusionary practices that many believed were relegated to the past.
The concentration of power in the hands of a select few wealthy individuals, making unilateral decisions that affect the broader populace, is antithetical to the democratic ideals upon which our nation was founded. This dynamic perpetuates systemic inequalities, as decisions are made without input from those most affected by them. The current trajectory suggests a future where the voices of marginalized communities are increasingly silenced, and the principles of justice and equality are subordinated to the interests of the powerful.
As we approach the third week of this administration, the outlook appears increasingly bleak. The rapid dismantling of critical institutions, the erosion of public trust, and the marginalization of human rights advocates paint a concerning picture of the future. It is imperative that we, as a society, remain vigilant and advocate for the preservation of democratic principles, the protection of human rights, and the equitable distribution of power.
In conclusion, the recent actions undertaken by Elon Musk, under the auspices of governmental efficiency, represent a significant departure from constitutional norms and democratic ideals. The unilateral dismantling of federal agencies, the dismissal of dedicated public servants, and the encroachment upon individual rights are developments that should concern all who value justice and equality. It is incumbent upon us to challenge these abuses of power and to strive for a society where decisions are made inclusively, transparently, and with respect for the inherent dignity of all individuals.
References
Associated Press. (2025, February 3). Trump and Musk move to dismantle USAID, igniting battle with Democratic lawmakers. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/c0c7799be0b2fa7cad4c806565985fe2
Associated Press. (2025, February 3). Elon Musk tightens grip on federal government as Democrats raise alarms. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/21153a742fbad86284369bb173ec343c
Danner, C. (2025, February 1). Elon Musk may have your Social Security number. Intelligencer. https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/elon-musk-doge-treasury-access-federal-payments.html
Matthews, D. (2025, February 4). The worst thing Trump has done so far. Vox. https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/397992/trump-usaid-foreign-aid-pepfar-musk-doge
Thompson, D. (2025, February 4). The ‘Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly’ of the United States Government. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/02/elon-musk-bureaucratic-coup/681559/
Gemma Ortwerth 
Leave a comment