The Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, has been making significant changes in how the federal government hires and fires employees. These changes are part of a broader effort to streamline government operations and reduce costs. However, they have also raised concerns about the impact on federal workers, particularly veterans, and the potential weakening of regulatory oversight.
### Changes in Federal Workforce
DOGE’s approach involves aggressively cutting the number of federal employees across various agencies. This includes not only direct government employees but also contract workers. The federal workforce is a complex blend of government and private sector employees, making it challenging to understand its dynamics. For instance, veterans make up a significant portion of federal employees, with about 24% of direct government employees having prior military service. This is much higher than in the private sector, where fewer than 5% of workers are veterans[1].
### Impact on Veterans
The layoffs have been particularly sensitive when it comes to veterans. Many federal employees with veteran status have served in combat or have service-connected disabilities. The political sensitivity around veterans’ issues has led to backlash from lawmakers, who emphasize the need to protect those who have served in the military. Senator Patty Murray and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson have both spoken out about the importance of supporting veterans in the federal workforce[1].
### Regulatory Oversight
DOGE’s cuts have also affected regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, which is responsible for overseeing companies like Elon Musk’s Neuralink. The reduction in staff has raised concerns about whether these agencies can effectively monitor safety practices and enforce regulations. For example, the FDA had previously identified safety issues with Neuralink’s animal labs, but with reduced oversight, there are fears that approvals might be expedited without adequate scrutiny[2].
### Reversals and Controversies
Some of DOGE’s decisions have been reversed due to legal concerns and practicality issues. For instance, an order requiring federal employees to report their weekly work to Elon Musk was deemed voluntary after widespread criticism. Additionally, layoffs at the National Nuclear Safety Administration were largely reversed due to national security concerns[3].
### Future Implications
As DOGE continues to reshape federal hiring and firing practices, there is a growing need for more data and oversight. Congress is calling for real-time reporting on workforce changes to better understand the impacts of these policies. This could help mitigate potential negative effects on the labor market and ensure that sensitive groups, like veterans, are protected[1]. Overall, DOGE’s efforts are part of a complex and evolving landscape of government reform, with both supporters and critics closely watching its developments.
