Tech Won't Save Us DOGE Is Gutting the US Digital Service w/ Kate Green and Milo
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Mar 27, 2025 Kate Green, a former U.S. Digital Service engineer, and Milo, also a former USDS engineer, delve into the disruptions caused by Elon Musk's DOGE on U.S. government tech initiatives. They discuss the mass resignations from USDS and the implications for service delivery in the public sector. Green highlights her contributions to critical projects like IRS DirectFile and emphasizes the need for technology that prioritizes user-centric solutions. The duo also sheds light on the We The Builders initiative, advocating for greater understanding and appreciation of federal workers.
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VA Benefits Application
- The VA had issues with veterans applying for benefits, notably PDFs incompatible with library computers.
- USDS intervened, improving the system to allow veterans to schedule appointments via text.
USDS Evolution
- USDS evolved from reactive "firefighting" to proactive project initiation.
- They used "discovery sprints" to understand problems before proposing solutions, exemplified by disaster recovery and FAFSA.
Reactions to Doge
- The Doge takeover caused horror and anxiety among USDS employees, but also a glimmer of hope for potential collaboration.
- Many USDS employees viewed their role as serving the American people, regardless of the administration.