Trump Signs Executive Order on Dogecoin Commission

Potential Formalization of the Department of Government Efficiency

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a commission offering recommendations for substantial reductions in federal spending and guided by billionaire Elon Musk, may gain official status. This possibility hinges on the legal viability of a recently signed executive order by President Donald Trump.

Renaming of the U.S. Digital Service

President Trump, on Monday, authorized an order to rename the U.S. Digital Service (USDS). Established in 2014 under former President Barack Obama with the aim of reforming the government’s technological approach, it will now be known as the U.S. DOGE Service (USDS). The acronyms are intentionally identical.

Staffing and Structure of the USDS

The USDS is projected to employ approximately 20 individuals, as stated by President Trump during the signing ceremony. It’s important to note that this entity is not a federal executive department, meaning its creation doesn’t necessitate Congressional legislation.

Formation of "DOGE Teams" Within Agencies

The executive order mandates that heads of U.S. agencies collaborate with the USDS to establish “DOGE Teams” within their respective organizations. These teams, comprising a minimum of four employees, must be formed within 30 days.

Typically, a DOGE Team will consist of a team lead, an engineer, a human resources specialist, and legal counsel. They will work in conjunction with both the USDS and their host agency to enact President Trump’s DOGE plan.

Software Modernization and Data Access

A key component of the executive order is a “software modernization” initiative. This plan seeks to enhance government network infrastructure and IT systems. Furthermore, the USDS will be granted access to agency records, software, and IT systems—excluding classified information—in accordance with existing laws.

Temporary Organizational Structure

The order also establishes the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization. This temporary body is dedicated to “advancing [President Trump’s] 18-month DOGE agenda” and is scheduled to dissolve on July 4, 2026.

Timeline and Political Considerations

President Trump has previously indicated that the work of DOGE should be completed by July 4, 2026. This date precedes the Ohio gubernatorial election scheduled for November 2026.

Legal Challenges and Transparency Concerns

The executive order’s future remains uncertain, facing potential challenges in the courts. At least three lawsuits have been filed, alleging that the Musk-led DOGE violates the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) of 1972. This law requires federal advisory committees to conduct public meetings and ensure “balanced” representation.

Leadership Changes and Potential Gubernatorial Run

DOGE was initially intended to be co-led by Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. However, Ramaswamy has since departed from DOGE following reported disagreements with Musk. He is now reportedly considering a campaign for Ohio governor.

Proposed Budget Cuts and Restructuring

Musk initially suggested that DOGE could facilitate cuts of up to $2 trillion to the U.S. federal budget. These potential savings would be achieved through measures like reducing waste, eliminating redundant agencies, and reducing the size of the federal workforce. He has since adjusted this goal, and many experts consider it unrealistic.

Potential Agency Abolition and Consolidation

According to reports in The Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration and DOGE officials have explored the possibility of abolishing the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). They have also considered combining and restructuring the FDIC, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Reserve.

Additionally, Musk has proposed eliminating the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the agency responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and providing guidance to financial institutions.