President Donald Trump has signed a sweeping executive order that expands the authority of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), giving it greater power to cut government spending, terminate federal contracts, and oversee agency budgets.
This move comes amid growing controversy surrounding DOGE’s aggressive efforts to downsize the federal workforce and eliminate what it calls wasteful spending.
The executive order, titled “Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Cost Efficiency Initiative,” was published on the White House website on Wednesday evening. It mandates strict oversight of government spending and imposes new restrictions on agency budgets, grants, and contracts.
Why This Executive Order Matters
DOGE’s Expanding Influence
- Trump created DOGE on his first day in office, appointing Elon Musk to lead the department.
- DOGE has been aggressively cutting federal jobs and contracts, sparking both praise and backlash.
- The executive order gives DOGE even more power over federal agencies, contracts, and spending decisions.
Critics Raise Concerns
- Opponents argue DOGE’s savings claims are exaggerated and its methods are abusive.
- A group of 21 government employees resigned in protest, accusing DOGE of dismantling essential public services.
- Multiple lawsuits have already been filed challenging DOGE’s authority and actions.
Key Takeaways from Trump’s Executive Order
1. Agencies Must Justify All Spending Within 30 Days
Federal agency heads must work with DOGE Team Leads and review all existing contracts and grants.
- Agencies must terminate or renegotiate contracts to cut spending.
- Special focus on educational institutions and foreign entities receiving federal funds.
- Each agency has 30 days to complete its review and submit reports.
2. Stricter Oversight of Government Travel
- Written justification required for all federally funded travel, including conferences.
- Focus on eliminating unnecessary trips and reducing travel budgets.
3. Federal Property and Asset Review
- Agencies must identify and report unused properties that could be sold or repurposed.
4. 30-Day Freeze on Federal Agency Credit Cards
- Federal agencies cannot use government credit cards for most purchases.
- Exceptions allowed only for disaster relief, emergency operations, or critical services.
Elon Musk’s Role and Controversial Employee Email
Musk has been at the center of controversy after sending an email to federal employees demanding they justify their employment. Those who failed to respond were warned they may be forced to resign.
- Trump backed Musk, stating that employees who didn’t respond were “on the bubble” and could be let go.
- Some agency heads have since claimed the email was voluntary, but confusion remains.
- Critics say Musk and DOGE are using intimidation tactics to force job cuts.
Public Reactions to Trump’s Executive Order
- Elon Musk, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“No more wasting your hard-earned money!” - Journalist Justin Glawe, questioning the order:
“Who are these ‘DOGE Team Leads’? No one really knows.” - Group of 21 government workers who resigned from DOGE, in a protest letter:
“We refuse to use our expertise to compromise government systems or dismantle public services.”
What Happens Next?
Lawsuits and Legal Battles
- Several lawsuits have been filed challenging DOGE’s authority over government agencies.
- Critics argue that DOGE’s access to sensitive government data could pose privacy risks.
Upcoming Cost-Cutting Measures
- DOGE will continue reviewing government spending, contracts, and workforce reductions.
- Agencies have 30 days to submit detailed spending justifications.
- DOGE will update cost-saving reports twice a week as part of its $65 billion efficiency drive.
The long-term impact of these measures remains uncertain, but the executive order signals further government downsizing and increased DOGE oversight in the coming months.
