Insights from a Former DOGE Staffer at the Department of Veterans Affairs

Jun 14, 2025 at 1:47 AM
Single Slide

A recent revelation has emerged regarding the inner workings of Elon Musk’s cost-cutting initiative, DOGE. Former staffer Sahil Lavingia, who served briefly within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), provides an unprecedented account of his experiences. During his short tenure, Lavingia witnessed firsthand the complexities surrounding transparency and secrecy that defined DOGE's operations. Sworn in under Assistant Secretary Mark Engelbaum, Lavingia was privy to a unique perspective on how such initiatives interact with federal agencies.

Reports have long circulated about the involvement of software engineers and political affiliates accessing confidential information within government bodies. Lavingia's insights shed light on DOGE's role in assisting the administration with workforce reductions across multiple departments. Despite promises of openness, many actions taken by DOGE remain undisclosed, sparking debates over accountability and operational ethics. Through interviews and investigations, journalists continue seeking clarity on these matters, now bolstered by Lavingia’s candid narrative.

As society grapples with the implications of reshaping governmental structures, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of transparency and integrity in public service. The stories shared by individuals like Sahil Lavingia remind us of the necessity for balanced approaches when implementing changes in large organizations. By fostering open communication and ethical practices, we can ensure that progress aligns with societal values and benefits all stakeholders involved.