Chicago Friday, May 23 2025
Last week, the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) attempted to place a team within the Government Accountability Office (GAO), following months of aggressive tactics by DOGE operatives, including gaining access to sensitive data and playing a role in mass federal layoffs.
However, David Walker, former GAO head, emphasized that such an action would undermine the constitutional separation of powers. “DOGE should revisit the Constitution,” Walker told, stressing that GAO is part of the legislative branch and not subject to executive oversight.
GAO rejected DOGE’s request, asserting that DOGE has no authority over its operations. Despite their similar missions, targeting waste, fraud, and abuse, GAO has a long-established track record and a significantly larger, experienced staff.
“GAO is like a seasoned NFL team. DOGE might have smart people, but it’s more like an MIT intramural squad,” Walker said, suggesting DOGE would benefit from collaborating with, rather than competing against, GAO.
Over the past 15 years, GAO’s work has reportedly saved or generated $725 billion. It recently released updated recommendations that could save over $100 billion more, including a suggested change to a Defense Department satellite communication project that could cut hundreds of millions in costs.
The White House declined to comment but has previously praised DOGE’s efforts to uncover government inefficiencies.
