Rep. Val Hoyle, a Democrat from Oregon, announced her departure from the congressional Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Caucus on Thursday, citing concerns over Elon Musk’s influence on government operations. Hoyle’s resignation highlights tensions surrounding Musk’s cost-cutting initiatives, which she claims undermine the caucus’s mission to streamline government functions and protect taxpayer interests.
In her statement, Hoyle expressed her initial commitment to the DOGE, stating that she aimed to advocate for working-class citizens and ensure responsible use of public funds. However, she argued that Musk’s actions have made it impossible for the caucus to fulfill its objectives, accusing it of prioritizing tax breaks for billionaires over the needs of everyday Americans. "It is impossible for us to do that important work when unelected billionaire Elon Musk and his lackeys insist on burning down the government—and the law—to line his own pockets," she wrote.
Hoyle’s resignation comes amid controversy surrounding DOGE’s recent actions, which have included significant staffing changes within the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and a broader focus on reducing government spending. The caucus, established under an executive order from President Donald Trump, is tasked with identifying government waste and increasing transparency in federal spending. However, it has faced backlash from Democrats, particularly regarding its impact on essential services and humanitarian programs.
In her remarks, Hoyle expressed alarm over Musk’s team’s access to sensitive Treasury Department payment systems and accused them of using intimidation tactics against public servants. She noted that the current environment makes it challenging to pursue meaningful reforms, likening the situation to "trying to replace your roof when someone’s throwing dynamite through the window."
The DOGE’s activities have raised concerns among lawmakers and public servants alike, particularly following the recent decision to pause U.S. foreign assistance funded through the State Department and USAID. This pause has halted numerous humanitarian and development programs globally, leading to layoffs and financial strain for aid organizations.
Hoyle’s departure from the caucus underscores the growing divide between those advocating for government efficiency and those wary of the potential consequences of aggressive cost-cutting measures. As she continues her efforts to find efficiencies in government, Hoyle remains critical of the current trajectory, emphasizing the need for a more balanced approach that prioritizes the needs of the public over the interests of wealthy individuals.