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USDS insider says DOGE’s audits are like nothing she’s ever seen
Apr 15, 2025
Karen Moronsky-Chapman, a data scientist at the U.S. Digital Service, shares her shocking insights into DOGE's audits, which she describes as more of a purge than a thorough analysis. She highlights the chaos surrounding the Department of Education's FAFSA application and the pitfalls of inexperienced staff accessing sensitive government data. The discussion also uncovers critical issues with government audits and the unsettling layoffs of seasoned technologists, raising significant concerns about tech integrity and accountability in public service.
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Quick takeaways
- The U.S. Digital Service plays a critical role in managing technology crises, but recent cuts under DOGE jeopardize its effectiveness.
- Insider perspectives reveal that DOGE’s audits resemble purges, raising serious concerns about privacy and data security within federal agencies.
Deep dives
The Role of the United States Digital Service (USDS)
The United States Digital Service (USDS) operates as a specialized team within the federal government that addresses critical failures in technology systems. Originally established to prevent incidents like the healthcare.gov rollout, the USDS has played a vital role in managing technology during crises, such as the 2024 FAFSA application failure. In that instance, technical glitches caused widespread problems for students applying for financial aid, prompting USDS to step in and restore functionality. The team's mission is centered on improving government services through effective data use, highlighting the significance of technology in public service.
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