DOGE Follows Musk’s Old Playbook—But What’s This About Social Security?

Race Day Live Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has already made big moves. It shut down the US Agency for International Development (USAID), investigated Medicare payments, and accessed a Treasury Department payment system. Now, DOGE is turning its attention to the Social Security Administration.

A source familiar with DOGE’s work told Semafor that the agency, which provides benefits to elderly and disabled people, is the next target.

A person involved in DOGE is preparing to work with Social Security, signaling that changes could be coming soon.

The Disruptive Strategy of DOGE

Led by Musk and a team of young engineers, DOGE has been moving quickly to cut government spending.

This aggressive approach has frustrated federal workers and become a defining feature of Donald Trump’s second term. Democrats are now pushing back against DOGE’s efforts, arguing that its drastic actions are harmful.

DOGE’s work has also triggered legal challenges and increased political scrutiny. Many are questioning its ultimate goal.

However, those within DOGE say their mission is clear: reduce government spending and reshape agencies to align with the president’s agenda.

Justifying the Cuts

Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa, supports DOGE’s approach. She said that scrutinizing expenditures is necessary and that any spending the president and the public disagree with should be eliminated.

One of DOGE’s boldest moves was shutting down USAID, leaving thousands of employees on leave. A person familiar with DOGE’s operations said USAID was an obvious first target due to perceived wasteful spending.

However, sources claim DOGE won’t take the same approach with every agency. Some programs, like border security and veterans’ services, may be handled more carefully.

Are Social Security and Medicare Next?

DOGE Follows Musk’s Old Playbook—But What’s This About Social Security?

DOGE has already looked into Medicare and Medicaid fraud. Now, its focus on Social Security suggests that programs once thought untouchable could be restructured or cut.

Views among DOGE supporters vary. Some believe every part of the federal government is open to change, while others think areas related to national security and essential benefits will be left alone. Senator Ernst believes every government program could eventually be reviewed.

Musk has mentioned a goal of cutting $1 trillion from the government. However, DOGE does not appear to have specific financial targets. A source told Semafor that their work depends on what they find in each department.

The Fast-Paced Approach

DOGE believes in moving quickly. A person familiar with its operations said the idea is to cut spending first and bring back only what proves essential. Musk has used similar methods before, notably at X (formerly Twitter), where he cut 80% of staff before rehiring some employees.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended DOGE’s work, saying the goal is to run the government more like a profitable business. The strategy includes workforce reductions, reorganizing departments, and shutting down unnecessary offices.

DOGE is also considering selling or eliminating government-owned properties to reduce costs. Employees from the State and Treasury Departments are already helping DOGE implement its plans.

Legal and Political Challenges

Despite its rapid changes, DOGE is facing legal issues. A federal judge ruled against one of its early retirement plans, and another court has temporarily restricted its access to Treasury Department systems.

Senator Ernst remains optimistic, saying the difficulties will be worth it in the long run. However, Democrats are preparing to fight DOGE’s agenda.

Read More:

Democrat Opposition to DOGE

Democrats are pushing back against Musk’s role in reshaping the government. They argue that he was never elected or given the legal power to dismantle agencies.

Senator Tammy Duckworth, a Democrat from Illinois, criticized DOGE, saying that in Trump’s government, money and loyalty to the president seem to be enough to gain power. Democrats also point out that some Republicans agree that Congress must approve major agency closures.

What’s Next for DOGE?

DOGE is moving fast, reflecting the Trump administration’s overall strategy. In 2019, Trump ally Steve Bannon famously said, “All we have to do is flood the zone.” That seems to be exactly what DOGE is doing—making as many cuts and changes as possible before being stopped.

However, there are limits. Lawsuits and court rulings may slow DOGE’s progress. Even within Trump’s circle, some may feel Musk is going too far. If Trump himself decides DOGE is overstepping, he could intervene.

For now, DOGE is on track to continue its work until at least the 2026 midterm elections. Those elections could serve as a referendum on whether Musk’s aggressive cuts are helping or hurting the country.

Reference

Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.