Department of Government Efficiency; advisory body led by Elon Musk to reduce federal spending and workforce
Background
The Department of Government Efficiency was an informal advisory body established by Donald Trump, and led initially by Elon Musk. Despite its name, it is not a formal executive department and operates without the statutory authority or oversight structures applicable to federal agencies. Beginning in January 2025, DOGE personnel gained access to multiple federal agency data systems, implemented mass federal employee layoffs and firings, and oversaw the dismantling of USAID and other agencies. Courts issued multiple rulings finding that specific DOGE actions exceeded legal authority, and questions arose about the legality of granting individuals without government appointments access to sensitive federal systems containing the personal data of millions of Americans.