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Vivek Ramaswamy, recently appointed to lead the newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency, has proposed ending funding for federal programs that lack current congressional authorization. This approach would impact a range of programs, including veterans’ healthcare, NASA, and early education initiatives.
Nicknamed “DOGE,” after Elon Musk’s favorite meme, the Department of Government Efficiency will operate independently of other government agencies, focusing on identifying wasteful spending and restructuring federal operations. Just days into his new role, Ramaswamy suggested significant cuts to federal funding, starting with a review of programs that no longer have active congressional approval.
Some federal programs were originally approved with limited timelines, after which their authorization expired. However, many still receive funding. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), over 1,200 programs are currently funded without recent authorization, amounting to more than $516 billion annually. When authorizations expire, Congress can extend these programs by passing new legislation or issuing additional appropriations, as noted by the CBO.
Ramaswamy addressed the situation on social media, pointing out that, “Over $516 billion in taxpayer funds continue to support programs Congress has let expire. We’re talking about more than 1,200 programs receiving funds without current authorization.” He emphasized his commitment to stopping this practice, stating that “we can and should save hundreds of billions by defunding these outdated programs.”
Following his post, social media users highlighted some examples of these programs, including the Veterans’ Health Care Eligibility Reform Act of 1996, which still funds veterans’ healthcare despite its authorization expiring in 1998, and continues to receive approximately $120 billion annually. Additional programs without current authorization include funding for NASA and early childhood education through Head Start.
Ramaswamy further clarified his position, stating, “If a program doesn’t directly benefit American citizens, it’s up for review. There are countless examples of expired authorizations still funneling money out the door, and this needs to end by next year.”
Both Ramaswamy and Elon Musk are leading the Trump-established agency with the goal of reducing government spending. Musk estimates that as much as $2 trillion could be cut from federal budgets. The department shared on social media that they’re looking for dedicated, highly skilled individuals to help in their mission. DOGE’s post read, “We don’t need more part-time thinkers. We’re looking for intelligent, small-government advocates willing to work hard on tough, cost-cutting tasks. If that’s you, send your resume directly.”
Musk acknowledged the demanding nature of the work at DOGE, noting, “This job will be tedious, it won’t make you many friends, and there’s no pay. Quite the bargain!”