DOGE slashes billions in expenses for climate change, gender equity in Mexico, Peru

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) made headlines this week after announcing the termination of 113 contracts worth a staggering $4.7 billion. Among the terminated contracts was a consulting agreement between the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Peru for climate change activities. This move by DOGE is part of their ongoing efforts to streamline operations and cut unnecessary spending within the federal government.

In a statement released on Tuesday, DOGE revealed that the termination of these contracts would result in savings of $3.3 billion. One of the contracts that caught the department’s attention was a $145,000 USDA consulting contract for ‘Peru climate change activities.’ This decision reflects DOGE’s commitment to eliminating wasteful spending and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.

Additionally, the Department of Labor canceled $577 million in grants that were deemed to be part of the “America Last” initiative. This move led to savings of $237 million and included funding for various projects such as “gender equity in the Mexican workplace,” “worker empowerment in South America,” and “improving respect for workers’ rights in agricultural supply chains” in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

DOGE, which is led by Elon Musk, was established earlier this year through an executive order by President Donald Trump. The organization has been given 18 months to optimize the federal government, streamline operations, and reduce spending. According to DOGE, as of March 26, they have saved Americans a total of $130 billion, equating to $807.45 per taxpayer.

Critics of DOGE have raised concerns about the organization’s level of access to federal systems and its authority to cancel contracts and make cuts to various agencies. Despite the criticism, DOGE remains committed to its mission of promoting government efficiency and fiscal responsibility.

In conclusion, DOGE’s recent actions highlight the ongoing efforts to cut wasteful spending and improve the efficiency of government operations. By terminating unnecessary contracts and reevaluating grant programs, DOGE is working towards a more streamlined and cost-effective government.