Uncanny Valley | WIRED
WIRED News Update: Keeping Tabs on DOGE
Feb 12, 2025
Leah Feiger, Senior Politics Editor at Wired, dives into the chaotic world of Dogecoin and its influence on government efficiency. She and Katie Drummond explore how inexperienced engineers have landed key positions amid this turmoil. They discuss the impact of Elon Musk's appointments and the potential legal ramifications for Doge, while reflecting on Trump’s controversial backing. The conversation unveils the complexities of political coverage in today's landscape, emphasizing the accountability in government roles as public scrutiny intensifies.
26:05
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Quick takeaways
- The recent layoffs at the CFPB reflect a troubling 'slash and burn' strategy reminiscent of Elon Musk's controversial management style.
- Concerns about the appointment of inexperienced individuals in key federal IT positions raise significant issues regarding security and government integrity.
Deep dives
Rapid Workforce Cuts at the CFPB
The Trump administration's focus on workforce reductions is evident through recent actions at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Dozens of employees were abruptly terminated in a late-night purge, receiving impersonal notifications that emphasized the efficiency of the cuts. This method of mass layoffs is reminiscent of Elon Musk's management style at companies like Twitter, highlighting a ‘slash and burn’ approach to staffing. The fast-paced changes are indicative of a larger strategy within the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), which is tasked with implementing significant changes across federal agencies.
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