A recent congressional hearing took a dramatic turn as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Representative Maxine Waters exchanged sharp words over concerns about access to sensitive financial information.

During the hearing, Waters questioned whether a government efficiency department—referred to during the session as “DOGE”—had unrestricted access to confidential financial data from departments like the Treasury and the IRS. She suggested that these individuals were not subject to standard clearance procedures.

“Do you know the level, type, or nature of the clearances and security training required for individuals to access the information held in the computers of Treasury, IRS, or CFPB?” Waters asked.