Trump Uses CIA-Founded Palantir To Collect Data on Americans // Kyle Kulinski

In a controversial move, the Trump administration has partnered with Palantir, a data analytics firm co-founded by Peter Thiel, to build a comprehensive database consolidating personal information on every American citizen. This initiative, driven by an executive order signed in March 2025, aims to integrate data across federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, Social Security Administration, and Internal Revenue Service. Palantir’s Foundry platform, already in use by multiple agencies, merges sensitive data like bank accounts, medical records, and Social Security details, raising concerns about unprecedented surveillance.

Critics describe the plan as dystopian, sparking outrage among privacy advocates. The New York Times reports Palantir has secured over $113 million in government contracts since January 2025, with a $795 million Pentagon deal expanding its role. The ACLU warns this could create a surveillance state, potentially targeting immigrants or political opponents, evoking authoritarian tactics.

Supporters, including White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers, argue it enhances efficiency, streamlines fraud detection, and saves taxpayer funds. Palantir claims agencies retain control over their data, denying direct storage. However, skeptics, including former Rep. Justin Amash, fear unchecked data consolidation invites abuse with minimal oversight. The Fourth Circuit Court has stressed that Americans expect their data to be fiercely protected, yet the administration’s push, supported by Elon Musk’s DOGE team, sidesteps privacy protocols, fueling distrust. This bold step toward centralized data control carries profound implications for civil liberties, balancing efficiency against the risk of overreach.