Republican lawmakers in Congress are saying one thing about Elon Musk in public but singing a different tune behind closed doors, according to a new report.
"A review of letters sent by Republican members of Congress to their constituents shows many lawmakers expressing caution, even concern, about the role Musk is playing," The Bulwark's Sam Stein and Joe Perticone reported Monday.
When citizens in a member's district email or call their Representative or senator they typically get a response that is oftentimes the same letter sent to everyone complaining about that matter. Some letters sent to constituents promise that they will be a guardrail for Musk and DOGE.
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"Others have expressed apprehension over the conflicts of interest that naturally result from the richest man on the planet—and a major government contractor—having such immense sway over federal spending," the report continued. "Even more have acknowledged fears that Musk may gain access to voters’ sensitive personal information."
Virginia Republican Rep. Rob Wittman wrote in one letter: “Elon Musk’s impressive track record of innovation provides valuable insights into how we can streamline government operations and leverage technology to better serve our citizens. That said, I share your concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and overreach. Protecting the personal information of Americans is a fundamental responsibility, and any breach of privacy is alarming."
Utah Republican Rep. John Curtis said, "It is important that DOGE operates with appropriate oversight to maintain transparency, prevent conflicts of interest, and ensure its work remains focused on serving the American people."
Rep. Daniel Webster (R-FL) promised he would speak to the White House about concerns aired by a constituent. He promised, "Members of the DOGE team are being vetted to ensure qualifications are met and then monitored by Treasury officials throughout their work." He went on to add, "They do not have access to Americans' sensitive details or information, and they cannot stop payments."
Two days after that letter was sent, a federal judge found enough evidence to issue a ruling legally blocking Musk and his team from accessing sensitive data and payment systems.
On Feb. 5, the Treasury Department claimed Musk had "read-only access" to personal data. On the following day, Nebraska Republican Mike Flood sent out his letter to a constituent promising the same "read-only access" was protecting her data.
"Although this process is stressful, I want you to know that I take my responsibility, under the Constitution, very seriously," he wrote.
He said that as a member of Congress, he decides how money will be spent, and he will fight to protect his constituents.
The report called out a "major, implicit undertone of the constituent letters sent by members of Congress" — "that voters are now fearful that their personal data and government benefits have been put at great risk—accusations that Musk has downplayed."
Read more quotes from what Republicans are saying in private here.
