President Trump Officializes Musk’s DOGE Commission with Executive Order
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is making headlines as it seeks to revolutionize the federal landscape with its ambitious plans. Spearheaded by billionaire Elon Musk, this advisory commission aims to implement significant cuts to federal agencies. President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order that could formalize DOGE’s operations, potentially reshaping how government agencies function.
Executive Order to Rename the U.S. Digital Service
On Monday, President Trump signed an executive order that officially renames the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), which was established in 2014 under former President Barack Obama. The new name, the U.S. DOGE Service (USDS), retains the same acronym, but signifies a shift in focus towards efficiency and modernization within the government.
Structure and Function of the New DOGE Initiative
The rebranded USDS is expected to employ around 20 individuals, as noted by Trump during the signing ceremony. It is important to clarify that despite its name, the USDS is not classified as a federal executive department, which would necessitate Congressional approval.
The executive order directs agency heads to collaborate with the USDS to form DOGE Teams consisting of at least four members within 30 days. These teams typically include:
- DOGE Team Lead
- Engineer
- HR Specialist
- Attorney
These teams will work closely with the USDS and their respective agencies to implement Trump’s efficiency agenda.
Goals of the Executive Order
The executive order outlines several key initiatives:
- Establishment of a software modernization plan to enhance government network infrastructure and IT systems.
- Access for the USDS to “unclassified” agency records and IT systems, in accordance with legal frameworks.
- Formation of a temporary organization called the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization, aimed at advancing the DOGE agenda over an 18-month period.
This temporary organization is scheduled to dissolve on July 4, 2026, coinciding with Trump’s goal to complete DOGE’s initiatives before the Ohio gubernatorial election scheduled for November 2026.
Legal Challenges Ahead
As the executive order advances, its future may be uncertain due to potential legal challenges. Three lawsuits have already emerged in federal court, alleging that Musk-led DOGE violates the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), a law established in 1972 that demands transparency and balanced representation from federal advisory committees.
Leadership Changes and Future Plans
Initially announced late last year, DOGE was set to be co-led by Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. However, Ramaswamy has since departed the initiative, reportedly due to conflicts with Musk. He is now expected to announce his candidacy for Ohio governor next week.
Musk has proposed that DOGE could potentially reduce the U.S. federal budget by up to $2 trillion through various measures, including:
- Cutting waste
- Abolishing redundant agencies
- Downsizing the federal workforce
Nonetheless, many experts have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of these ambitious goals.
Potential Organizational Changes
According to The Wall Street Journal, discussions are underway about potentially abolishing the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and merging it with the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Federal Reserve. Additionally, Musk has suggested eliminating the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), which is responsible for consumer protection laws.
This initiative by DOGE represents a significant shift in federal efficiency efforts, and its development will undoubtedly be closely monitored in the coming months.
