Special Poll
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) strongly criticized proposed cost-cutting measures from the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) that she claimed would undermine crucial programs like veterans’ health care, Medicare, and Social Security. In a Thursday post on the social platform X, Ocasio-Cortez condemned the suggestions, saying, “Doesn’t get lower than gutting some of the only lifelines left for veterans, seniors, widows, and the disabled.” She accused the advisory group of targeting the most vulnerable populations in its spending proposals.
Her remarks followed a controversial post by Elon Musk on Wednesday, where he called to “Defund the ACLU.” Ocasio-Cortez responded by defending the organization, pointing out, “They receive $0 in taxpayer funds.”
The criticism came as Republicans in Congress convened on Thursday with DOGE leaders Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk for a meeting organized by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.). Johnson described the gathering as a “brainstorming session” to explore potential cost-saving initiatives.
DOGE’s efforts are gaining traction in Congress, with Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) spearheading a Senate caucus on the initiative and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) preparing to lead a related subcommittee. Some Democrats have expressed interest in participating as well, including Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Greg Landsman (D-Ohio), and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), who told The Hill he is considering joining.
Meanwhile, Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) unveiled her “DOGE Acts” legislation on Thursday. The bill proposes federal spending cuts, a hiring freeze, and salary caps as part of broader efforts to curb government expenses.
Ocasio-Cortez’s criticism highlights growing tensions over DOGE’s proposed policies, which Republicans champion as necessary for fiscal responsibility but which Democrats warn could harm vulnerable groups. The debate underscores the challenges of balancing cost-cutting measures with protecting essential social safety nets.