Statecraft
What to Expect From DOGE
Jan 8, 2025
Oren Cass, chief economist at American Compass and expert in government efficiency, dives into the inner workings of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He discusses the hurdles in firing federal employees and innovative ways to save taxpayer money. Oren reveals the dynamics between West Coast and East Coast approaches within DOGE and emphasizes the importance of ambitious goals in federal contracting. His insights into balancing deregulation with state investment highlight the crucial role government can play in fostering innovation.
36:49
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Quick takeaways
- The inefficiency of federal hiring processes hinders acquiring qualified talent, necessitating reforms that emphasize merit and competence in staffing.
- Enhancing government efficiency requires not just cutting bureaucracy, but investing in state capacity and innovative practices to improve overall services.
Deep dives
Revamping Hiring and Firing Practices
The federal government's hiring and firing processes are currently inefficient, often resulting in a workforce that lacks the necessary talent and flexibility. Unlike the private sector, which can fire employees relatively easily, federal regulations protect those within the system, making it challenging to let go of underperforming staff. A specific example highlighted was that of a young talent, Jack Cable, who excelled in a coding competition but was deemed unqualified for a Pentagon position due to rigid hiring criteria. Addressing these issues requires reforming hiring practices alongside establishing an effective firing process that prioritizes merit and competence.
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