Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Disbanded Early, Core Principles Endure
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a flagship initiative launched by former US President Donald Trump, has reportedly ceased operations eight months ahead of its scheduled charter completion. Created to modernize federal technology and streamline government productivity, the program's early closure has drawn considerable attention.
Principles Live On, Despite Entity's Closure
Despite its disbandment as a centralized entity, the core principles championed by DOGE are "alive and well," according to Scott Kupor, Director of the Office of Personnel Management. Kupor, who provided the Trump administration's first public comments on DOGE's status, clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that while "That doesn’t exist" as a standalone department, its guiding philosophies have been integrated into federal operations.
DOGE had made notable early interventions, aiming to reduce federal spending by targeting agency budgets and redirecting priorities across Washington. Initially promoted vigorously on social media by Trump and advisors like Elon Musk – who famously called it a "chainsaw for bureaucracy" – the initiative often faced criticism for a perceived lack of verifiable cost savings.
Institutionalizing Efficiency and Accountability
Kupor emphasized that "de-regulation; eliminating fraud, waste and abuse; re-shaping the federal workforce; making efficiency a first-class citizen" were central tenets catalyzed by DOGE. These principles, he stated, will be institutionalized by various agencies, the USOPM, and the White House Office of Management and Budget. "The work we began with DOGE will continue to shape efficiency and accountability in government for years to come," Kupor affirmed.
Former Employees Transition to New Federal Roles
Reuters previously reported that Trump officials had been discreetly signaling DOGE's impending end. Many former DOGE employees have seamlessly transitioned into new roles within the administration. Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb and a former member of Elon Musk's team, now leads the National Design Studio, focusing on improving government websites. Other staff, including Edward Coristine and Zachary Terrell, have taken positions in the Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Naval Research, and the State Department.
Continued Focus on Waste Reduction
President Trump continues to frame DOGE's original goals as integral to his broader mandate for reducing waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the federal government. Furthermore, the government-wide hiring freeze associated with DOGE has concluded. Interestingly, states like Idaho and Florida are developing local initiatives inspired by the program's objectives.
