Democrats join DOGE subcommittee, including member seeking ‘good government’
Democrats have named their members to serve on the House Oversight Subcommittee for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and are prepared to “fight back” against cuts to critical federal programs. The newly established agency, a key promise of President Donald Trump’s reelection campaign, is tasked with cutting government waste and enhancing transparency in government spending. It was established through an executive order signed by Trump on Monday.
Rep. Melanie Stansbury, D-N.M., has been announced as the ranking member of the subcommittee. She will be joined by Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-Mass., Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., Rep. Greg Casar, D-Texas, and Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, as well as Eleanor Holmes Norton, a non-voting congressional delegate for Washington, D.C. Additionally, Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., the ranking member of the full Oversight and Government Reform Committee, will be able to sit on the subcommittee in an ex officio capacity.
Stansbury has pledged to utilize every available tool to collaborate across party lines and oppose policies that could harm Americans. She emphasized the Democrats’ commitment to DOGE if it works towards enhancing government efficiency and the functionality of federal agencies. However, she warned that they are prepared to push back if the agency becomes a platform for political theatrics that serve the interests of Trump and his allies.
Garcia echoed Stansbury’s sentiments, expressing his determination to resist the House GOP’s efforts to target the federal workforce and cut vital federal programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. He criticized Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., the chair of the subcommittee, for supporting an agenda that includes eliminating crucial departments and programs. Garcia stated that they are prepared to combat attempts to weaken the social safety net and ensure support for working families and the middle class.
In response, Greene announced the Republican members selected to serve on the subcommittee, including Rep. Pat Fallon, R-Texas; Rep. William Timmons, S.C.; Rep. Brandon Gill, R-Texas; Rep. Brian Jack, R-Ga.; Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn.; Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo.; and Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Texas. Greene emphasized their dedication to promoting efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability within the federal government.
The developments come as former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is stepping away from DOGE to launch a campaign for Ohio governor. Ramaswamy, initially chosen by Trump along with Elon Musk to lead the agency, is expected to announce his candidacy next week. His decision to run for office necessitates his departure from DOGE, given its organizational structure.
Overall, the House Oversight Subcommittee for the Department of Government Efficiency is gearing up to address government waste and enhance transparency in government spending. Both Democrats and Republicans are mobilizing their members to ensure the efficient and effective operation of federal agencies while safeguarding critical programs and services for the American people.
