The United States Digital Service (USDS), established during the Obama administration as a federal IT initiative, was recently renamed the United States DOGE Service (USDS) under an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. This rebranding is part of the broader Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, led by Elon Musk, which aims to modernize federal technology, streamline government operations, and reduce spending. The new DOGE structure includes temporary teams within federal agencies tasked with implementing these goals.
However, the transition has been controversial. DOGE has begun issuing termination notices to USDS staff, many of whom have served as IT experts for the federal government since the Obama era. These layoffs are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to downsize the federal workforce, particularly targeting probationary employees who lack job security. The firings have been abrupt, often communicated via email or video calls, and have left many workers in limbo.
Critics argue that these actions undermine the federal workforce’s stability and effectiveness. Legal challenges have also arisen, with opponents claiming that DOGE’s activities violate federal laws and constitutional provisions. Despite this, the administration defends DOGE as a necessary step to enhance efficiency and cut costs.