DOGE races to shift narrative amid backlash over federal cuts

Elon Musk leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)

Amid growing backlash over sweeping federal cuts and internal turmoil, the US DOGE Service is shifting focus towards creating digital tools to streamline government services in an effort to reshape public perception and defend its role in the Trump administration’s aggressive restructuring efforts, as reported by The Washington Post.

The urgency to showcase constructive achievements has intensified within DOGE, according to two sources familiar with the group's internal operations. Thomas Shedd, a General Services Administration (GSA) official and former Tesla employee, underscored this in a recent staff meeting. “I need wins to defend,” Shedd said, emphasising the need to “deliver value and ship,” using a Silicon Valley term for launching new projects.

Mounting backlash spurs internal reckoning

The internal push comes as DOGE faces increasing criticism over its aggressive budget cuts and firings of thousands of civil servants. Even President Trump, who previously praised Elon Musk’s oversight of DOGE, has called for a more measured approach. “We say the ‘scalpel’ rather than the ‘hatchet,’” Trump posted on Truth Social, acknowledging the backlash from constituents protesting DOGE-led cuts.

“PR is viewed as a big mess internally right now,” said one source familiar with DOGE's internal discussions. “They know they need to do a better job of telling the story, and that’s going to be a big component of the next phase of DOGE.”

Shifting to digital innovation

As part of its effort to reshape public perception, DOGE is focusing on redesigning government digital services. Projects include overhauling websites and apps to improve user experiences for federal workers and citizens accessing services.

Airbnb co-founder Joe Gebbia, a close associate of Musk, has been recruited to lead this initiative. One of the flagship projects includes digitising the retirement process for federal workers, previously bogged down by outdated paper systems. In a promotional video shared by the US Office of Personnel Management, government employees praised the new streamlined process.

However, these efforts have not been free from controversy. Former US Digital Service (USDS) head Mina Hsiang criticized DOGE for pushing out experienced teams that were already working on digital improvements, particularly within the Social Security Administration.

“When you fire people who have deep understandings of the mission you want to accomplish, you’re sort of starting from zero,” Hsiang said.

Controversy over cuts and Musk’s role

DOGE's approach has led to growing concerns over its disregard for established protocols. While former entities like 18F and USDS worked quietly to avoid public scrutiny and focused on safeguarding sensitive data, DOGE’s rapid approach has drawn criticism for ignoring necessary safeguards.

Projects that had previously saved millions and improved service efficiency—like the modernisation of the Veterans Affairs portal and Social Security services—are now being revamped under DOGE. Critics argue that this aggressive overhaul prioritizes speed over security and sustainability.

Despite this, DOGE is determined to demonstrate tangible results. Musk has reportedly considered introducing a “DOGE dividend,” a scheme to distribute savings from budget cuts directly to taxpayers. Though the initiative remains conceptual, DOGE has already published figures estimating a per-taxpayer saving of $650. Critics warn that such payouts could undermine the stated goal of reducing the government deficit.

“People can’t relate to $100 billion … but they can relate to their own paycheck,” said James Fishback, CEO of investment firm Azoria and the developer of the DOGE dividend idea.

Mixed public perception and ongoing challenges

Public perception of DOGE remains deeply divided. A recent Washington Post-Ipsos poll revealed that nearly 50 percent of Americans disapprove of Musk’s role in federal governance, while only 34 percent approve.

Criticism has intensified over reports of long waits for retirement claims, reduced benefits for 9/11 survivors, and the firing of military veterans. In response, DOGE is seeking to highlight success stories that illustrate efficiency and value for taxpayers.

Despite these efforts, insiders acknowledge that changing the narrative will take time. “The political reality is people want a positive story,” said a DOGE insider. “There’s a chance you don’t get to that positive story.”

(663 words) Social activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat described the event as an attempt to demolish the moral, religious and ethical values of Kashmir.

"Who allowed this nude fashion show at Gulmarg in Holy Ramzan? Semi nude men and women walking on snow. Will Tourism Deptt, CEO GDA throw some light? Why are you hell bound to demolish our moral, ethical, cultural and religious values (sic)?" he asked in a post on X.

In the chorus of condemnation, there were few voices who spoke up in defence of the designers.

“The objection to a fashion show held in Gulmarg demonstrates the prevalence of a medieval mindset in Kashmir,” said one social media user on X.

“Government more offended by a fashion show in Gulmarg than targeted killings of innocent people in Billawar. Talk about misplaced priorities,” added another.

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