Sahil Lavingia, a tech entrepreneur, was dismissed from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) following a Fast Company interview where he downplayed the inefficiency of government operations. His blog post details his 50-day stint at the VA, focusing on AI implementation, contract review, and assisting with layoffs, while expressing disappointment at his inability to meaningfully improve veterans’ services. Lavingia’s dismissal highlights DOGE’s controversial role in government layoffs and data collection, and contrasts his expectations of impactful work with the reality of limited authority and internal challenges. His experience underscores criticisms of DOGE’s methods and its impact on agency modernization efforts.
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Federal government layoffs, totaling 62,242 announced cuts across 17 agencies, represent the largest source of job losses. This surge, primarily attributed to a factor referred to as “DOGE” resulting in 63,583 layoffs, signifies a massive 41,311 percent increase compared to 2024 figures. The timing of these cuts conveniently avoids immediate reflection in February’s jobs report, while administration discussions focus on manipulating economic data. Substantial economic ripple effects are anticipated from these cuts and further reductions are expected.
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A federal judge’s ruling deemed the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) mass firing of probationary federal employees unlawful, citing a lack of statutory authority. This decision prompted several agencies to reinstate critical personnel, including specialists in areas like avian flu and nuclear weapons. Despite this partial reversal, the threat of broader, “large-scale” federal job cuts remains. The situation highlights the ongoing instability and uncertainty faced by federal workers.
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The Social Security Administration (SSA) plans to lay off at least 7,000 employees, potentially up to half its workforce, as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to shrink the federal government. These layoffs, driven by the Department of Government Efficiency, raise concerns about delayed benefit processing for the 72.5 million Social Security recipients. Advocates warn that reduced staffing will severely impact service delivery and effectively constitute a cut in benefits. The SSA has announced plans for workforce reductions, reassignments, and voluntary separation agreements, while also closing numerous field offices across the country.
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John Q. Hosedrinker