Sahil Lavingia recently shared his experiences working for the Department of Veterans Affairs under the DOGE initiative, a project launched by the Trump administration aimed at cutting costs and reshaping the federal workforce. Lavingia’s tenure lasted just 55 days, beginning on March 17, 2025, when he was sworn in by Mark Englebaum, the VA’s Assistant Secretary for Human Resources and Administration.
During his brief time at DOGE, Lavingia witnessed firsthand the initiative’s controversial practices. Reports have circulated about DOGE’s role in allowing certain individuals, including software engineers and political loyalists, access to sensitive government data. The initiative has also been linked to significant layoffs within the federal workforce, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Lavingia’s decision to join DOGE was driven by a desire to contribute to government reform. However, he soon found himself in an environment where many actions were kept secret, contradicting the initiative’s promises of transparency. This lack of openness has made it difficult for journalists and the public to understand the full impact of DOGE’s operations.
In a recent interview, Lavingia opened up about his motivations for joining the team and the lessons he learned about the inner workings of the initiative. His insights provide a rare glimpse into a program that has been largely shrouded in mystery.
The DOGE initiative has sparked widespread debate about the future of the federal workforce and the effectiveness of government reform efforts. As more individuals like Lavingia speak out, the public may gain a clearer picture of the challenges and implications of such initiatives.
For those interested in the ongoing discussion about DOGE and its impact on federal employment, NPR has been covering the topic extensively. They have reported on various aspects of the initiative, including its effect on job reports and the independence of the Federal Reserve.
Lavingia’s story is just one piece of a larger narrative about government reform and the complexities involved in reshaping how federal agencies operate. As the conversation continues, many are left wondering what the future holds for the federal workforce and the transparency of government initiatives.