RealClearPolitics Podcast
DOGE Bro at the IRS
Mar 21, 2025
Heather Wilhelm, a National Review columnist and forthcoming novelist, joins Mark Penn, CEO of Stagwell and Democratic politics expert, and bestselling author Scott Turow for a lively discussion. They dissect Laura Ingraham's interview with a DOGE team member at the IRS, tackle the flawed World Happiness Report, and critique the backlash against Disney's Snow White remake. As they navigate political shifts within the Democratic Party, they emphasize the importance of relationships over wealth in achieving true happiness.
45:04
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the IRS's significant technological challenges and how private sector involvement aims to improve efficiency and accountability.
- It critically examines the World Happiness Report's questionable methodology, emphasizing the importance of relationships over financial optimism in assessing true well-being.
Deep dives
IRS Technology Overhaul Insights
A significant discussion arose regarding the ongoing technological upgrade of the IRS, which has faced substantial delays and budget issues over the years. The conversation highlighted the striking disparity in IT resources, comparing the IRS's 8,000 IT personnel to the mere 200 at a mid-sized bank, despite the IRS processing similar transaction volumes. The interview featured a private sector software developer brought in to improve the IRS's efficiency, shedding light on the chaotic nature of the agency's workforce and the need for a streamlined approach. Both speakers expressed a reevaluation of their previous criticisms towards the IRS, acknowledging that the large workforce may hinder rather than enhance operational efficacy.
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