Protests Erupt Over Musk's DOGE Appointment

Elon Musk's role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), appointed by President Donald Trump, is facing significant public backlash. Protests have erupted in Toledo, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia, with demonstrators expressing concerns about Musk's influence on privacy and governmental overreach. Critics argue that Musk, an unelected official, is overstepping his bounds, while supporters like Republican state Rep. Josh Williams view his role as crucial for identifying wasteful government spending. Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio, among other organizations, fear Musk's cost-cutting measures could jeopardize their funding, as the federal government is a significant contributor. Despite mixed public opinion, with a recent CBS News poll showing 51% support for some federal oversight by DOGE, protests continue to highlight deeper issues beyond fiscal efficiency, such as privacy and democracy. The ACLU of West Virginia has organized peaceful protests against DOGE's potential impact on vital government services.