On Tuesday, the Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) was shaken by the mass resignation of 21 employees.
Engineers, product managers, and designers walked out, citing political interference, mass firings, and threats to federal system integrity. The group posted a joint resignation letter on WetheBuilders.org, stating they could not support dismantling essential public services.
Employees accuse D.O.G.E. of undermining government systems
The resignation letter, addressed to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, criticized the agency for removing experts and compromising core government functions. It stated that employees had sworn to serve the American people but could no longer fulfill their duties under current leadership. The letter also alleged that technical staff working on Social Security, tax filing systems, and disaster relief had been abruptly dismissed.
Tensions at the agency increased after anonymous officials questioned employees about their political beliefs. Soon after, an email terminated one-third of the agency’s workforce overnight. A former employee who had served under both Obama and Trump described the restructuring as reckless and harmful to government efficiency.
Musk dismisses concerns as the white house remains silent
Elon Musk, who has played a key role in reshaping D.O.G.E., dismissed the resignations, calling the employees “Dem political holdovers” on X, formerly Twitter. He claimed they were remote workers who refused to return to the office. Musk supporters echoed his sentiments, with some publicly mocking the departing staff.
Despite Musk’s influence, the White House has avoided confirming his official role. During a press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt refused to name D.O.G.E.’s administrator. However, a White House official later identified Amy Gleason as the acting head. Republican lawmakers have expressed concerns over the agency’s aggressive approach, with some urging a more measured strategy.
Lawsuits challenge Musk’s influence over federal agencies
Several lawsuits now challenge the legal basis of Musk’s authority at D.O.G.E. Court filings reveal that Musk is not a government employee and lacks formal decision-making power. However, under his influence, D.O.G.E. has eliminated contracts, cut jobs, and moved to shut down entire agencies.
One of the most controversial actions involves the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Democratic lawmakers argue that Musk is working to dismantle the agency that oversees financial regulations. Critics say this move benefits Musk as he expands his digital payment services. A federal judge has temporarily blocked further layoffs at the CFPB, but concerns remain over the agency’s future.