The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is facing internal turmoil as 21 employees resigned in protest on Tuesday. In an anonymous letter, the former staffers expressed their ethical concerns about DOGE’s handling of government systems and sensitive data.
“We will not use our skills as technologists to compromise core government systems, jeopardize Americans’ sensitive data, or dismantle critical public services.”
Why Are DOGE Employees Resigning?
The mass resignation highlights growing concerns among technology experts working for the federal government. The main issues cited include:
1. Data Security Risks
- Resigning employees fear DOGE’s approach to data access is reckless, potentially exposing sensitive government and citizen information.
- Critics argue that weak cybersecurity measures could allow foreign adversaries or hackers to exploit U.S. government data.
2. Ethical Concerns Over Government Services
- Employees believe DOGE’s actions are leading to the dismantling of critical public services rather than improving efficiency.
- They argue that important government programs are being cut without understanding their purpose or impact.
3. Resistance to Political Influence
- Some staffers claim that DOGE is prioritizing political goals over expertise, replacing professionals with unqualified individuals who lack the necessary experience.
D.K.: A Former Employee Speaks Out
Among the resigning employees is D.K., a former member of the U.S. Digital Service. She spoke to NPR’s All Things Considered but requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation.
D.K. initially joined the United States Digital Service (USDS)—a government initiative launched in 2014 to improve federal digital services. When President Trump took office, he signed an executive order renaming it DOGE, shifting its mission toward cost-cutting and restructuring.
“When I found the United States Digital Service, it seemed like the perfect fit. The ability to go out and use my knowledge and expertise to help make the government systems better was the biggest draw.”
However, D.K. and other resigning staffers believe that DOGE’s approach is harming the very systems they were meant to improve.
DOGE’s Growing Controversy
The resignations come at a time when DOGE is under intense scrutiny from lawmakers, security experts, and federal judges.
- Security Concerns: Democratic lawmakers have warned that DOGE’s handling of federal data could expose national security secrets.
- Legal Battles: A federal court recently restricted DOGE’s access to certain Treasury Department records due to cybersecurity concerns.
- Political Backlash: Intelligence agencies like the CIA and ODNI have refused to comply with DOGE’s demands for data access.
