About 100 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) employees protested outside the agency’s headquarters on Saturday after President Donald Trump’s newly appointed budget director, Russell Vought, took control. Members of the CFPB Union NTEU 335 chanted slogans in the cold while motorists honked in support.
Protesters carried signs like "Resist the mean bros," referencing Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which allegedly accessed restricted government records. The Wall Street Journal reported that Musk’s agency had “read-only” access to CFPB systems. Later, Musk posted on X: "CFPB RIP." The agency's website also experienced disruptions.
The CFPB Union vowed to protect employee and consumer data, urging lawmakers and advocates to resist the move. Established after the 2007–08 financial crisis, the CFPB oversees financial institutions and protects consumer rights.
The change in leadership followed the Senate’s confirmation of Vought as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director. Trump had previously named Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as acting CFPB director after firing Rohit Chopra. Bessent immediately froze all CFPB activities. Vought, known for his conservative stance and involvement in Project 2025, supports dismantling the CFPB, aligning with long-standing Republican goals.
A federal judge temporarily blocked DOGE and Trump appointees from accessing Treasury Department systems over concerns of unauthorized disclosures. The CFPB did not respond to requests for comment.
The shake-up at the financial watchdog raises concerns about consumer protection and data security under the new administration.