Chicago February 12, 2025
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at significantly reducing the size of the government. The order instructs heads of federal departments and agencies to plan for “large-scale reductions in force” and implement a “workforce optimization initiative” created by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.
Musk, who joined Trump in the Oval Office, emphasized the importance of reducing federal expenses, calling it “essential.” He also criticized the federal bureaucracy, labeling it an “unelected, fourth, unconstitutional branch of government” that needs to be held accountable.
The order requires agency heads to work with Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to shrink the federal workforce and limit hiring to essential positions. It prioritizes cuts to offices that perform non-mandatory functions. The move is part of Trump’s efforts to reduce government spending and size.
