Alex Padilla demands Musk, OPM stop sending mass emails to staffers

Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., is calling on Elon Musk and Acting Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Charles Ezell to stop sending mass emails to staffers outside of the executive branch. In an open letter released on Thursday, Padilla expressed concern over legislative branch offices and agencies receiving mass emails from hr@opm.gov, despite not being under the jurisdiction of the executive branch.

Padilla emphasized that neither the White House nor the OPM have the authority or legitimate purpose to send mass emails to legislative branch offices, demanding information from employees or threatening adverse personnel actions. He argued that these emails waste time and resources, potentially misleading employees into sharing sensitive information in an unauthorized manner.

The OPM recently sent out mass emails to federal government workers, asking them to provide a summary of their activities over the past week using five bullet points. Employees were given until 11:59 p.m. on Monday to respond to the inquiry. Padilla stated that these emails were especially concerning as some executive branch agencies warned their employees not to respond, as it could risk sensitive information falling into the hands of malicious foreign actors.

Padilla criticized the mass emails as a sign of disorganization and chaos within the OPM. He urged DOGE and OPM to confirm that they have taken steps to halt any further mass email communications to legislative branch offices and agencies, as well as their employees.

In a related development, Elon Musk celebrated a new poll showing that most voters support the creation of a government agency dedicated to efficiency. The poll also highlighted that DOGE, a cryptocurrency, is contributing to significant spending cuts. Musk’s involvement in the government’s efficiency efforts has been a subject of debate, with some questioning his influence and methods.

The Democratic lawmaker’s call for an end to mass emails from the OPM and DOGE underscores the need for clear communication channels and proper oversight within the federal government. It is essential to ensure that sensitive information is protected and that employees are not misled or put at risk by unauthorized communications. Padilla’s actions reflect a commitment to accountability and transparency in government operations.

Bradford Betz, a Fox News Digital breaking reporter covering crime and political issues, highlighted the importance of addressing these concerns and ensuring that proper protocols are followed in government communications. The issue of mass emails to legislative branch offices serves as a reminder of the need for clarity and accountability in all aspects of government operations.