Monterey Times

Rep. Jimmy Panetta, a member of the U.S. Congress representing California's 19th district, recently took to social media to address several pressing issues. On February 6, 2025, he expressed concerns over privacy and national security matters through a series of tweets.

In his first tweet of the day, Rep. Panetta announced new legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding sensitive personal data from being accessed by "an unelected billionaire." He emphasized the importance of preventing unauthorized interference in the Treasury’s payment systems and protecting American citizens' information. "We’re introducing legislation to push back against allowing an unelected billionaire access to the highly sensitive personal data of Americans. We must prevent unlawful meddling in the Treasury’s payment systems and protect Americans." (February 6, 2025)

Later that evening, Rep. Panetta voiced his apprehension regarding reports about Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) potentially accessing confidential taxpayer data. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, he indicated that this situation raises significant privacy and security concerns, prompting him to seek further clarification on these developments. "I am very concerned about recent reports regarding Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) gaining access to confidential taxpayer data. This raises serious privacy and security questions." (February 6, 2025)

Concluding his remarks for the day, Rep. Panetta highlighted USAID's critical role in enhancing national security and global stability while providing humanitarian aid worldwide. He cautioned against abruptly terminating USAID or halting foreign assistance programs without thorough consideration of their impacts."USAID can play an important role in advancing our national security, strengthening global stability, and providing lifesaving humanitarian aid." (February 6, 2025)