By Maribel Velazquez
The Elon Musk’s concern for his personal safety led to an unusual decision within the United States government: allowing his bodyguards were designated as federal agentsdespite not meeting the established minimum requirements.
According to a report from NBC Files, based on emails obtained by the organization Democracy Forward, The United States Marshals Service (USMS) authorized these special designations in 2025, granting its team personal security powers of federal agentssuch as carrying weapons in government facilities.
The most controversial point is that several of these members did not have basic police training nor with minimal experience in agencies with arrest authority. Still, the agency approved waivers to allow their temporary addition, a move that has raised questions about safety standards and the discretionary use of federal power.
According to the documents, The process began at the beginning of February 2025in a context in which Musk played a key role within the government after being named at the head of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency. During that period, the businessman also promoted profound changes in federal structures, including attempts to dismantle agencies such as USAID.
Musk had publicly expressed his fear of possible threats against him. “I have no wish to die,” he said in a statement in February, justifying the size and level of his security team, which he even suggested could be expanded.
It is unknown if the designations are still valid
Internal emails cited by NBC Files show that deputies evaluated the situation considering the “immediate need” to strengthen the protection of the employer. However, they also recognized that your equipment did not meet usual standards. The solution was to grant formal exemptions, despite recent precedents that already questioned this type of practices.
In 2024, the office of the inspector general of the Department of Justice had warned that the USMS had appointed agents in similar circumstances without fully meeting the requirements, adding a new level of concern to the case.
It is unclear whether these designations remain in effect, especially after Musk left his position within the government. The documents indicate that the authorization would last for two years, but the agency has not confirmed whether it remains active or when it could end.
The report also highlights that Musk did not respond to requests for comment. while the Marshals Service said it could not immediately respond to questions about the case.
Beyond the specific episode, the case fits into a broader pattern of criticisms towards the use of security resources by figures close to the administration of donald trumpwhere excesses, relaxation of rules and questionable decisions have been pointed out.
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