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DOGE Workforce Cuts Cost Taxpayers $135 Billion Despite $160 Billion Savings Claim

Independent analyses reveal significant hidden costs in Elon Musk-led federal downsizing efforts, with legal challenges and service disruptions continuing to mount.

Some workforce and policy experts believe DOGE may be losing the government money in the form of lost productivity and revenue.
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Overview

  • Independent experts estimate that workforce cuts, rehiring, and lost productivity under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) will cost taxpayers $135 billion this fiscal year.
  • DOGE, led by Elon Musk, claims to have saved $160 billion by targeting wasteful government spending, but neither figure includes mounting legal defense costs from over 200 lawsuits.
  • At least 25% of the 100,000 workers initially fired have been rehired after courts ruled many firings illegal, with rehired employees receiving full pay during their time on leave.
  • Cuts to critical agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have disrupted essential services, including tax collection and public health programs.
  • Public disapproval of DOGE's methods is widespread, with 58% of Americans opposing Musk's handling of the department and bipartisan concerns over long-term impacts on government efficiency and transparency.