President Donald Trump has created the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, run by tech-billionaire Elon Musk, to make major changes to the federal government. Musk has promised to cut trillions off the federal budget, with a potential $1 trillion reduction being a “good shot.” DOGE has faced criticism from Democrats and legal challenges. It was created on Trump’s first day in office and aims to cut spending and regulations.
Musk has enlisted young engineers, ages 19-24, with little government experience to help in cutting the federal budget. Reports have emerged of DOGE operatives accessing government payment systems and potentially ousting top civil servants who refused them access. The agency has also been examining federal health agency payment and contracting systems.
Democratic lawmakers and watchdog groups are opposing Musk’s takeover of government payment systems, citing privacy and security concerns. Lawsuits have been filed against DOGE for violating privacy laws by giving Musk and his staff access to government payment systems. Advocates for employee unions and retirees are outraged by the breach of sensitive personal and financial data.
The Trump administration has designated Musk as a “special government employee,” allowing him to work for the federal government without compensation for a limited time. Musk has stated that his actions with DOGE will send shockwaves through the system and address government waste. Democrats and watchdog groups are committed to fighting back against Musk’s takeover of government systems.
