Elon Musk's controversial push for a government shutdown has ignited widespread debate, as his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) aims to streamline federal operations. The tech mogul's initiative to eliminate nonessential positions could potentially save about $110 billion annually, though it conflicts with the White House's efforts to avert such a shutdown. With federal personnel costs, including military spending, totaling approximately $340 billion each year, Musk's strategy aims to significantly reduce government expenditure.
In recent months, Musk has expressed his desire for a government shutdown, arguing that nonessential jobs should not be funded by the public payroll.
“If the job is not essential, or they are not doing it well, they obviously shouldn’t be on the public payroll,” – Elon Musk
The looming possibility of a shutdown comes as DOGE has already cut thousands of positions within the federal workforce. The potential shutdown, if it extends beyond the 30-day mark, could facilitate the permanent removal of hundreds of thousands of federal employees, aligning with Musk's vision for a leaner government.
Federal agency contingency plans compiled by the nonpartisan Partnership for Public Service in 2023 revealed that approximately 850,000 workers would be subject to furlough in the event of a shutdown. The majority of these employees, around 410,000, are outside the Department of Defense. These figures highlight the significant impact that a shutdown could have on federal operations.
“A shutdown is aligned with the goals of DOGE,” – Don Moynihan
Despite Musk's intentions, the White House has been clear in its opposition to a government shutdown. In a February 11 executive order, the administration directed agency heads to create plans for large-scale reductions in force (RIF), prioritizing measures that would not disrupt critical government functions. However, planned long-term furloughs and layoffs would still trigger RIF procedures.
The complexity of executing such workforce reductions is underscored by the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) guidance on different methods for reducing manpower. These include emergency furloughs like a shutdown, planned long-term furloughs lasting more than 30 days, and layoffs. Notably, emergency furloughs that cross the 30-day threshold do not automatically initiate RIF procedures, providing a potential loophole for Musk's plans.
“We are in uncharted territory. There is not a lot of case law discussing how agencies should apply emergency furloughs.” – Nick Bednar
While some agencies like the FBI and those with law enforcement and security functions would continue operating as normal during a shutdown, other critical services like Social Security checks would remain unaffected. However, many federal workers would face unpaid periods until the shutdown concludes.
The potential repercussions of a prolonged shutdown have drawn criticism from politicians across the aisle. Senator Mark Kelly expressed concerns about the broader implications of Musk's ambitions.
“Maybe they decide that entire government agencies don’t need to exist anymore,” – Senator Mark Kelly
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries also voiced strong opposition to the idea of a government shutdown.
“It is not something we could ever support,” – House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries
“Democrats will not be complicit.” – House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries
The possibility of using a shutdown as an excuse to permanently eliminate federal jobs has raised questions about the legality and fairness of such actions. Employees affected by these potential cuts might have grounds to appeal decisions if they believe RIF procedures were bypassed improperly.
Despite these challenges, Musk remains steadfast in his pursuit of government efficiency through workforce reduction. His approach continues to provoke debate among lawmakers and federal employees alike, with some Republicans acknowledging his preference for a shutdown.
“A shutdown has been his preference,” – A Republican familiar with the situation
However, another Republican familiar with the situation noted the difficulties Musk might face in achieving his goals due to presidential constraints.
“I think he’s boxed in there by the president. I think it would be really hard for him to get around that.” – A second Republican who had heard about Musk’s desire for a government shutdown
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