The newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has announced significant cost savings for taxpayers through the cancellation of 104 diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) contracts. This initiative has resulted in over $1 billion in savings as of Friday, a substantial increase from the 85 contracts and $1 billion reported just two days prior.
The Department of the Treasury led the way with 21 canceled contracts, saving $25,247,783. The Department of Health & Human Services followed closely behind, canceling 15 contracts for a savings of $28,187,448. Remarkably, while the Office of Personnel Management only canceled three contracts, the savings amounted to a staggering $494,956,233.
Other agencies with notable cancellations include the Department of Agriculture (11 contracts), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) (7 contracts), and Homeland Security (7 contracts). The Department of Veterans Affairs also took action, placing 60 employees solely dedicated to DEI roles on administrative leave, emphasizing a renewed focus on veteran care and benefits. A spokesperson for the VA expressed pride in moving away from what they termed "divisive DEI policies."
These actions follow an executive order signed by President Trump aimed at "ending illegal discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity." However, this move has sparked criticism from several state attorneys general, who argue that the elimination of DEI initiatives is unrelated to combating discrimination. They contend that these programs ensure fair opportunities for all and contribute to the success of businesses and organizations.
Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, Rep. Aaron Bean (R-FL) founded the Congressional DOGE Caucus to address government waste, and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA) has advocated for measures such as return-to-work mandates for federal employees and the sale of underutilized federal properties.
