The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which previously employed around 13,000 staff and operated with a budget of $9.2 billion, is facing significant cuts that could impact public health safeguards.

President Donald Trump has initiated layoffs within federal agencies as Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) begins an audit of federal workers labeled as 'inefficient.'

Concerns have been raised regarding the sensitive data access request related to DOGE, which has not yet been approved, alarming both government officials and data protection experts.

Political pushback is anticipated, with Republicans divided over the implications of the cuts on national security, while Democrats demand increased transparency and oversight regarding DOGE's influence on defense spending.

Legal challenges from good-government groups are emerging, aiming to limit Musk's influence and ensure transparency due to potential conflicts of interest stemming from his business connections.

Musk asserts that DOGE's operations are transparent and that all actions are documented online, although critics question the accuracy of reported savings and the overall transparency of the initiative.

Musk has acknowledged the necessity of scrutiny over his actions, emphasizing that accountability is vital in his role within the government.

Experts have voiced concerns about the disruption of health databases that are crucial for managing public health, highlighting the potential for harm due to the restructuring efforts.

Critics, including several prominent Democrats, argue that the cost-cutting measures could have severe domestic and international consequences, particularly in the healthcare sector.

In a related context, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called for NATO to adopt a more aggressive posture, moving away from its traditional defensive role.

Experts warn that Musk's activities may resemble 'state capture,' where political figures exploit state resources for personal gain, raising alarms about the integrity of governance.

The House Oversight Committee has formed a subcommittee to support DOGE's objectives, while some Democrats are pushing for accountability in its operations.