The Unexpected Push: How DOGE is trying to influence beyond the government

DOGE has been on a mission to extend its influence. It often starts with a simple email, asking to embed staff in various organizations. This isn't just about government agencies. DOGE has been reaching out to all kinds of entities, even those outside the federal government. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) was one of the first to push back. They reminded DOGE that they answer to Congress, not the executive branch. This isn't an isolated incident. DOGE has been trying to insert itself into nearly 40 different places, both inside and outside the government. Some of these entities have already felt DOGE's impact. The U. S. Institute of Peace had a dramatic standoff with DOGE representatives. Other organizations, like AmeriCorps and the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, have been targeted for elimination in the president's budget proposal. Even private nonprofits, like the Vera Institute of Justice, have been approached by DOGE. The people driving this outreach are mostly young and inexperienced. They often have little knowledge about the organizations they're trying to embed in. This has raised eyebrows and concerns among employees who fear retaliation. Some of these staffers are even college students, with no federal government experience.

One of the key figures is Nate Cavanaugh. He's been involved in multiple agencies, including the U. S. African Development Foundation and the National Endowment for the Humanities. His partner, Justin Fox, is a 21-year-old college student. They've been detailed to various agencies, often with little explanation of their role or purpose. DOGE's efforts aren't just about data collection. They're about slashing spending and carrying out the administration's agenda. This includes shutting down agencies, cutting staff, and terminating grants. The goal is to downsize the federal government, but the methods are raising questions and concerns. Some organizations have pushed back. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the Legal Services Corporation have both rebuffed DOGE's requests, citing federal law. Others, like the Peace Corps, are waiting to see what comes of DOGE's review. The future of these organizations hangs in the balance, as DOGE continues its push to embed and influence.

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