Apple News In Conversation Inside Elon Musk’s digital government takeover
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Mar 27, 2025 Leah Feiger, Senior Politics Editor at Wired, and Zoë Schiffer, Head of Business and Industry at Wired, dive into the tumultuous changes within federal agencies sparked by Elon Musk's controversial initiatives. They share insights from over 150 sources, revealing the confusion and upheaval affecting federal workers. Topics include Musk's 'Doge' efforts to inject startup-style management, alarming data privacy threats, and the real human impacts of these technological transformations, urging a shift towards personal stories amid broader political narratives.
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DOGE's First Interview
- Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) gave their first interview since taking control of several government agency budgets.
- Critics raise concerns about transparency, accountability, and security clearances, while Musk claims DOGE is following the law.
Tech Takeover Tactics
- Musk's team is treating the government like a tech company takeover, focusing on data access, layoffs, and AI implementation.
- They've infiltrated key agencies like OPM, GSA, Social Security Administration, and the Treasury.
Strategic Agency Targeting
- DOGE targeted less-scrutinized agencies first to gain control and access.
- They installed young, inexperienced technologists and engineers, a move unprecedented in government.