Donald Trump’s second term as president has been marked by a significant effort to reshape the federal bureaucracy. This campaign, often described as a “war on bureaucracy,” aims to reduce the size of the federal government and increase its accountability to the American people. Here’s a breakdown of what’s working and what’s failing in this endeavor.
## What’s Working
1. **Reduction in Government Offices**: Trump has issued Executive Order 14217, which targets the elimination of what he considers unnecessary government offices and functions. This includes entities like the Presidio Trust, Inter-American Foundation, United States African Development Foundation, and the United States Institute of Peace[2][4]. By reducing these offices, Trump hopes to minimize government waste and promote American innovation.
2. **Streamlining Advisory Councils**: The executive order also calls for the termination of several Federal Advisory Councils, such as those at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation[4]. This move is intended to streamline government operations and reduce unnecessary advisory bodies.
3. **Cabinet Confirmations**: Trump’s Cabinet picks have been confirmed quickly by the Senate, with more nominees confirmed than under previous administrations[3]. This rapid confirmation process allows Trump to implement his policies more swiftly.
## What’s Failing
1. **Legal and Constitutional Challenges**: Trump’s aggressive approach to reshaping the bureaucracy has faced legal challenges. The firing of nearly 20 departmental inspectors general without proper notice and the dismissal of the head of the Office of Government Ethics have raised concerns about accountability and the rule of law[1]. The Supreme Court has intervened in some cases, temporarily blocking certain actions.
2. **Public Perception and Polls**: Many Americans are skeptical about Trump’s methods. Polls indicate that a majority of adults believe he has exceeded his authority and not focused on the most pressing problems[1]. This public perception could undermine support for his policies.
3. **Impact on Civil Service**: The reduction in bureaucracy has led to significant job losses among civil servants, including those with limited job protections. This has raised concerns about the long-term capacity of the government to respond to crises, such as pandemics or natural disasters[1].
In conclusion, while Trump’s efforts to reduce bureaucracy have resulted in some immediate changes, they are also facing significant legal and public relations challenges. The long-term effectiveness of these policies remains to be seen.
