Trump Signs Executive Order to Create Department of Government Efficiency
On January 20, 2023, President Donald Trump enacted an executive order to officially establish the Department of Government Efficiency, abbreviated as DOGE. This initiative, aimed at reducing costs within the federal government, is supported by prominent figures Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy.
Goals and Structure of DOGE
The executive order provides additional insights into DOGE’s objectives, emphasizing a strong focus on modernizing federal IT systems. Mr. Trump had initially introduced DOGE in November, outlining its mission to deliver guidance from external experts to foster governmental reform. He noted at that time that the initiative would work to “slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies.”
In an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal, Musk and Ramaswamy outlined their ambition to potentially save $500 billion annually by addressing “expenditures that are unauthorized by Congress or being used in ways that Congress never intended.”
Transition from Advisory Committee to Executive Unit
Contrary to earlier operations as an advisory body, the newly signed executive order clarifies that DOGE will function within the executive branch. Furthermore, the existing U.S. Digital Service, known for improving governmental digital services, will be rebranded as the U.S. DOGE Service.
The executive order articulates that DOGE’s primary role will be to execute the President’s DOGE Agenda, centered around enhancing governmental efficiency and productivity through modern technology and software upgrades.
Notably, the executive order does not specifically mention strategies for cutting federal spending or adjustments to regulations, leading to speculation that these areas might be inadvertently addressed alongside technological advancements.
Legal Challenges Ahead for DOGE
This executive order arrives amid legal scrutiny, as DOGE currently faces multiple lawsuits challenging the legality of its structure. The complaints, which emerged shortly after Mr. Trump’s inauguration, assert that DOGE’s previous operations as a federal advisory committee contravened the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA). This law mandates transparency and public representation within federal advisory groups.
With the establishment of DOGE as a unit within the executive branch, it appears to sidestep some provisions of FACA. Nonetheless, Democracy Forward, a legal entity representing affected groups, evokes a cautious stance. Skye Perryman, CEO of Democracy Forward, stated, “DOGE has been operating secretly and out of compliance with federal law for some time, which yesterday’s executive orders could not impact.”
Similarly, the National Security Counselors group, which is part of the ongoing litigation, expressed uncertainty. Kel McClanahan, the group’s executive director, pointed out, “It is difficult to imagine the sprawling DOGE written about by Musk and Ramaswamy slamming on its brakes and taking a job modernizing agency IT systems.”
Leadership Changes within DOGE
In a significant shift, Ramaswamy announced via social media that he is stepping down from his role in DOGE. As reported, he plans to pursue a campaign for the governorship of Ohio, with an announcement expected by the end of January. In his farewell message, Ramaswamy expressed gratitude for his involvement, stating, “It was my honor to help support the creation of DOGE. I’m confident that Elon & team will succeed in streamlining government.”
Future of DOGE
The executive order indicates that DOGE will act as a “temporary organization,” tasked with implementing the President’s 18-month agenda, with a planned conclusion set for July 4, 2026. According to recent information, the DOGE office will consist of approximately 20 staff members, contrasting with the U.S. Digital Service, which currently employs about 230 individuals. Recent efforts by this unit include the enhancement of the IRS’s Direct File service and website improvements for the Social Security Administration, projected to save around $285 million over a five-year span.
As the full implications of the DOGE initiative unfold, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how it reconciles its dual objectives of efficiency while navigating the complexities entailed by legal challenges and leadership transitions.
