Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

The Actual Math Behind DOGE's Cuts
If you thought Elon Musk was really trying to cut costs, you weren't in on the joke.
By Jessica Riedl

In November, when Donald Trump first announced his plan to place Elon Musk in charge of a new Department of Government Efficiency, the idea was widely written off as a joke. Then Trump took office, and DOGE began its very real stampede through the government. As an effort to meaningfully reduce federal spending, however, DOGE remains wholly unserious.

Musk initially promised that he would eliminate $2 trillion of the $7 trillion federal budget, before scaling back his ambitions to $1 trillion, and then $150 billion. Even that revised target is highly improbable.

The bad news is that the project seems quite likely to expand long-term budget deficits. Slashing IRS enforcement will embolden tax evasion and reduce revenues by hundreds of billions of dollars over the decade. Laying off Department of Education employees who ensure collection of student-loan repayments will increase the deficit. Illegally terminated federal employees are already being reinstated with full back pay, leaving the government with little to show for its trouble besides mounting legal fees.

https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/05/musk-doge-spending-cuts/682736/

---

Please read more of this DOGE thread. There are more "Facts" in a single post there than 100 pages of The Atlantic

---

I have read it. Did you read the article?

---

Would you read an article from OAN and take it seriously?

---

Try not to be ridiculous.

---

You give a ridiculous source, and you're piqued at the response?

---

Not piqued, just a little embarrassed on your behalf.

---

Your credibility is suffering if you believe The Atlantic to be a reliable source to quote. Once upon a long time ago they could have been, but alas.

---

Keep digging.

---

So in conclusion, you believe The Atlantic to be a reliable source. That is on you. Congrats.

Contract Update!

Since Friday, agencies terminated 242 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $646M and savings of $200M, including a $118k USDA contract for the “Democratic Republic of Congo youth climate corps coordinator”, and a $23.5k USAID contract for the “garden… pic.twitter.com/5VyqNltlRe

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 13, 2025

DOGE Savings summary. $28.7 Billion so far, and counting

https://doge.gov/regulations

Assassin said:

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DOGE Savings summary. $28.7 Billion so far, and counting

https://doge.gov/regulations

---

Oh if only the source was a federal district judge then Sam would believe it. Their credibility is not to be questioned.

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

The Actual Math Behind DOGE's Cuts
If you thought Elon Musk was really trying to cut costs, you weren't in on the joke.
By Jessica Riedl

In November, when Donald Trump first announced his plan to place Elon Musk in charge of a new Department of Government Efficiency, the idea was widely written off as a joke. Then Trump took office, and DOGE began its very real stampede through the government. As an effort to meaningfully reduce federal spending, however, DOGE remains wholly unserious.

Musk initially promised that he would eliminate $2 trillion of the $7 trillion federal budget, before scaling back his ambitions to $1 trillion, and then $150 billion. Even that revised target is highly improbable.

The bad news is that the project seems quite likely to expand long-term budget deficits. Slashing IRS enforcement will embolden tax evasion and reduce revenues by hundreds of billions of dollars over the decade. Laying off Department of Education employees who ensure collection of student-loan repayments will increase the deficit. Illegally terminated federal employees are already being reinstated with full back pay, leaving the government with little to show for its trouble besides mounting legal fees.

https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2025/05/musk-doge-spending-cuts/682736/

---

Please read more of this DOGE thread. There are more "Facts" in a single post there than 100 pages of The Atlantic

---

I have read it. Did you read the article?

---

Would you read an article from OAN and take it seriously?

---

Try not to be ridiculous.

---

You give a ridiculous source, and you're piqued at the response?

---

Not piqued, just a little embarrassed on your behalf.

---

Your credibility is suffering if you believe The Atlantic to be a reliable source to quote. Once upon a long time ago they could have been, but alas.

---

Keep digging.

---

So in conclusion, you believe The Atlantic to be a reliable source. That is on you. Congrats.

---

I actually have a subscription to The Atlantic. I like their sports writeups. Doesnt give me a choice to ignore the rest of the Post

Great work by @USPS on their contract review. 8,639 contracts were reviewed, resulting in the cancellation or modification of 1,076 contracts with $188.5M in savings.

This included a $791k contract for “Negotiation Skills Training” and $100k for "CIO All Hands Meeting -…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 17, 2025

Contract Update!

Over the last 3 days, agencies have terminated 262 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $1.2B and savings of $230M, including a $13.8M marketing research DEI contract to provide “analytical and initiative support on building the case for health equity”. pic.twitter.com/5dtyh6CQkY

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 17, 2025

Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last 3 days, agencies have terminated 262 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $1.2B and savings of $230M, including a $13.8M marketing research DEI contract to provide “analytical and initiative support on building the case for health equity”. pic.twitter.com/5dtyh6CQkY

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 17, 2025

---

SMH

DOGE: The USIP was the agency funding the Taliban and god knows what else. pic.twitter.com/bIwZvKrgZW

— @amuse (@amuse) May 20, 2025

Sam Lowry said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Contract Update!

Over the last 3 days, agencies have terminated 262 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $1.2B and savings of $230M, including a $13.8M marketing research DEI contract to provide “analytical and initiative support on building the case for health equity”. pic.twitter.com/5dtyh6CQkY

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 17, 2025

---

SMH

---

Pretty bizarre, eh?

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

I think this thing was very one sided for a loooong time going back to Obama days. Trump came in with his guns loaded with the goal of straightening things out. Gonna take some time.

And add, full transparency for MOST of these organizations. By that, anywhere there is a verified security concern (verified maybe through DOD or SOS?) they get a partial or full pass from public scrutiny

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

---

Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

Great work by the @usairforce in partnership with @DOGE in substantially reducing a wasteful program serviced by external consultants.

The Air Force Strategic Transformation Support I ("AFSTS I") was a $2.75B contract awarded to eight management consulting firms in 2020 to… pic.twitter.com/NIImiyKLxX

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

FLBear5630 said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

---

Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

---

You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

Sam Lowry said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

---

Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

---

You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

---

You say you are a conservative and keep using The Atlantic to make your argument?

Assassin said:

---

Sam Lowry said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

---

Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

---

You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

---

You say you are a conservative and keep using The Atlantic to make your argument?

---

Are conservatives only allowed to use arguments from their own tribe?

I thought that was what leftists did.

Sam Lowry said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

---

Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

---

Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

---

You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

---

Why are you married to the status quo?

Anyone going against the norm is essentially a threat to democracy according to you.

The status quo is tyrannical. It's $37T in debt. It's bureaucrats overpaying contractors because they're promised high paying jobs for doing so. You think red tape is designed to eliminate corruption when it's actually designed to empower corruption.

You need to practice skepticism against the status quo, not solely those questioning and challenging it. You should never practice faith in our country which is ran by man who is by nature evil and corrupt.

Sam Lowry said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

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My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

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From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

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I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

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That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

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Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

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You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

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A little revolution in the bureaucracy is a good thing.

Sam Lowry said:

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Assassin said:

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Sam Lowry said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Besides the Census itself, the @USCensusBureau performs 102 additional surveys costing $2.2 billion, many of them obsolete with the results not being used to drive any action nor even looked at.

The Census Bureau and DOGE are reviewing them one-by-one. So far, 5 wasteful…

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

---

My question updating systems, analysis, metrics, etc... All good things and should be done periodically. Why is it being framed as massive waste and even negligence, malicious and even criminal?

Those 5 analysis metrics may have outlived their usefulness, but it is not abnormal when dealing with analysis. I can't think of any system that doesn't have reports that don't get used even though the system measures it.

---

From what it appears we are seeing, these analyses haven't been done and publicized either for a long time or in some cases, forever. Once the fringe groups found out that they could get away with abusing them due to this neglect, they did. Once government officials found out that they could redirect the funds to specific companies to line their own pockets, they did.

Now it's only been a few months. And DOGE is simply a group that recommends. They are dealing with agencies still loaded with pro-liberal/Biden officials who appear to be delaying implementation as long as possible.

What we need, is an independent agency like DOGE that does these inspections on both a regular and irregular basis, so as to catch these events prior to the funds being disbursed, and also government officials that don't pass these items through that arent in the best interest of America. And hold their feet to the fire.

---

I have no problem with this. DOGE making recommendations, the Agency implementing and GAO monitoring results is the way the system should work. Good positive interactions and execution. Love it. I just hate the negative showmanship for Party politics. Party Politics should not impact the Agencies.

---

That horse and buggy left the station once parties were formed in the 1790's. It is why bureaucratic positions should all be "at will" positions with very few exceptions for information and organizational continuity only. The cabinet should be able to clean house of workers no longer needed due to policy/needed work changes, poor work, reorganization of agencies, dissolution of agencies founded by the executive branch, etc. The executive branch hires them, they need to be able to let them go as needed. There are legal means to fight any retaliation grievances..

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Where did I say anything about that? I just don't get the normal stuff having to be negative victories. This stuff happens every year. GAO has a report every year. This is nothing unusual, including the submitted budget being higher regardless of cuts.

---

You're right to feel uneasy, and here's why -- all the stuff about efficiency is smoke and mirrors. The real purpose of DOGE is to break the civil service and replace it with a corrupt system of patronage. That's why Trump wants the "at will" power to terminate anyone who is less than loyal.

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/doge-civil-servant-purge/681671/

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You say you are a conservative and keep using The Atlantic to make your argument?

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Are conservatives only allowed to use arguments from their own tribe?

I thought that was what leftists did.

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It's a far-left argument. Not middle of the road by any means.

Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

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You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

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If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

---

If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

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It is wasteful because Trump won and doesn't want it. There are PLENTY of programs that are well run being cut and others that are disasters allowed because he is for it. This is a political exercise. Look at his budget.

FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

---

If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

---

It is wasteful because Trump won and doesn't want it. There are PLENTY of programs that are well run being cut and others that are disasters allowed because he is for it. This is a political exercise. Look at his budget.

---

You do know those added programs under Biden were not overseen by him, or likely requested by him, correct?
I'm not even sure the Biden cabinet had a handle on what was going on in their name.

EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

---

If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

---

It is wasteful because Trump won and doesn't want it. There are PLENTY of programs that are well run being cut and others that are disasters allowed because he is for it. This is a political exercise. Look at his budget.

---

You do know those added programs under Biden were not overseen by him, or likely requested by him, correct?
I'm not even sure the Biden cabinet had a handle on what was going on in their name.

---

This is not a Biden thing. Some have been in place since Reagan. It is not a Party thing, even the same Political Party has different agendas.

I have NO issue with cleaning up, I have a problem with the way it is portrayed and the inference that there is something illegal or underhanded happening. All of these have been on the GAO list and all were legally put in place. The show and attitude that these people have done something wrong is what gets me pissed.

FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

---

If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

---

It is wasteful because Trump won and doesn't want it. There are PLENTY of programs that are well run being cut and others that are disasters allowed because he is for it. This is a political exercise. Look at his budget.

---

You do know those added programs under Biden were not overseen by him, or likely requested by him, correct?
I'm not even sure the Biden cabinet had a handle on what was going on in their name.

---

This is not a Biden thing. Some have been in place since Reagan. It is not a Party thing, even the same Political Party has different agendas.

I have NO issue with cleaning up, I have a problem with the way it is portrayed and the inference that there is something illegal or underhanded happening. All of these have been on the GAO list and all were legally put in place. The show and attitude that these people have done something wrong is what gets me pissed.

---

What is from the Reagan era that is being axed?

Assassin said:

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Great work by the @usairforce in partnership with @DOGE in substantially reducing a wasteful program serviced by external consultants.

The Air Force Strategic Transformation Support I ("AFSTS I") was a $2.75B contract awarded to eight management consulting firms in 2020 to… pic.twitter.com/NIImiyKLxX

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 20, 2025

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Gotta make room for that Qatar plane re-fit.

EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

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FLBear5630 said:

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EatMoreSalmon said:

---

FLBear5630 said:

---

Assassin said:

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Contract Update!

Over the last two days, agencies terminated 120 wasteful contracts with a ceiling value of $3.1B and savings of $908M, including a $288k DoD consulting contract for “culture services”, and $4.05M for “technical services” in Mozambique. pic.twitter.com/7G8FFAQzmr

— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) May 21, 2025

---

You guys don't see the difference between different Platforms, programs, or goals between Administrations?

Most everything that is being deemed "wasteful" was for a program that a sitting Administration wanted to do. Is that really wasteful or different goals? Based on the Budget submitted, we are not "saving" anything as we are just funding different programs. This is not unusual. It is also not savings as the proposed Budget is 5T deficit.

---

If a program was not given proper supervision or has an unclear goal, it is likely wasteful. Ask any public school teacher how that works.

---

It is wasteful because Trump won and doesn't want it. There are PLENTY of programs that are well run being cut and others that are disasters allowed because he is for it. This is a political exercise. Look at his budget.

---

You do know those added programs under Biden were not overseen by him, or likely requested by him, correct?
I'm not even sure the Biden cabinet had a handle on what was going on in their name.

---

This is not a Biden thing. Some have been in place since Reagan. It is not a Party thing, even the same Political Party has different agendas.

I have NO issue with cleaning up, I have a problem with the way it is portrayed and the inference that there is something illegal or underhanded happening. All of these have been on the GAO list and all were legally put in place. The show and attitude that these people have done something wrong is what gets me pissed.

---

What is from the Reagan era that is being axed?

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These contracts are the latest iteration of programs that started long ago. USAID has been in effect for 63 years. DOE was started under Carter. Reagan created the Bureau for Private Enterprise which had 65 Billion cancelled. This is not new, it goes on every year. GAO has a report, funny DOGE is following it.

What is new is the marketing around it. Brought in by Trump and Musk (the PT Barnum of our time). The DOGE marketing is working on the MAGA crowd, they do love a show...