Emails Show Musk Security Team Granted Federal Authority With Training Waivers

Documents indicate U.S. Marshals Service approved deputations for private security personnel despite gaps in standard qualifications.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

Members of Elon Musk’s private security team were granted limited federal authority through deputization by the U.S. Marshals Service, despite some personnel lacking standard training and experience requirements, according to newly released government emails.

The records, cited in a report by NBC News, show that the deputations occurred during Musk’s tenure as a senior adviser in the administration of Donald Trump. During that period, Musk led the Department of Government Efficiency, where he pursued initiatives aimed at reducing federal spending and restructuring agencies.

According to the emails, certain members of Musk’s security detail required waivers because they had not completed basic law enforcement training or did not meet minimum experience thresholds typically required for deputization. Despite these gaps, a senior official within the U.S. Marshals Service authorized the exceptions, allowing the team to operate with limited federal protections.

The deputized personnel were granted authority primarily related to protective duties, including the ability to carry firearms in specific federal facilities. The designation did not extend to broader law enforcement powers such as making arrests.

Officials involved in the process cited “significant and credible threats” against Musk as justification for the decision, given his prominence in both the private sector and government advisory role.

Musk acknowledged the security concerns during a public appearance, stating, “I don’t actually have a death wish.”

While deputizing private security personnel has precedent in limited circumstances, it is uncommon, particularly for individuals without formal law enforcement backgrounds. Sources referenced in a CNN report described the practice as rare.

The arrangement raised internal concerns about oversight and potential liability, particularly in scenarios involving the use of force or other incidents occurring under federal authority.

The emails also reflect the broader context of Musk’s role in government at the time. As head of the Department of Government Efficiency, he advanced proposals to restructure agencies and reduce costs, drawing both support and criticism.

It remains unclear whether the deputized status for Musk’s security personnel is still active or whether additional requirements or safeguards have been introduced following his departure from government service.