Department of Government Efficiency reduces federal workforce by 12 percent

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, has significantly impacted the federal workforce. Since the reelection of Donald Trump, the federal civil service has seen a 12 percent decline, with more than 270,000 employees leaving—the fastest reduction in federal employment since the end of World War II.

While the initiative achieved modest reductions in government contracting and grants, its primary effect was the downsizing of the federal workforce. Despite earlier concerns regarding the potential collapse of basic government functions, the federal government continues to operate similarly to its previous state.

Concurrently, former DOGE staffers are transitioning into the private sector. An analysis indicates that approximately two dozen alumni have leveraged their government experience to secure CEO positions, senior executive roles, or founding positions in new startups. These alumni-led businesses have reportedly raised at least half a billion dollars in funding, with several registering on Sam.gov to pursue government contracts.