Fox News Poll: Voters have concerns about DOGE, even as they see need for cuts
Elon Musk’s Role in Government Spending Cuts Raises Concerns Among Voters
Voters across the country are expressing concerns about recent government spending cuts carried out by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), even as many acknowledge the necessity of such measures. According to a recent Fox News national survey, a majority of Americans view the national debt as a crisis or major problem, with nearly 6 in 10 believing that a significant portion of government spending is wasteful and inefficient.
However, despite the perceived need for fiscal responsibility, a slim majority of 51% oppose substantial reductions in the number of government employees. Additionally, 56% of respondents disapprove of the Trump administration’s efforts to identify and reduce wasteful spending, and 65% worry that insufficient thought and planning have gone into the implemented cuts.
Interestingly, opinions on Elon Musk’s involvement in the DOGE initiative are split. While 40% of voters approve of Musk’s work with the department, 58% disapprove. Notably, a significant majority of Democrats (93%), as well as a majority of Independents (70%) and a notable portion of Republicans (20%), express disapproval of Musk’s role in the spending cuts.
When it comes to specific federal programs, there is widespread support for increased funding for Social Security (63%), Medicare and Medicaid (58%), and medical research (53%). However, opinions are more divided on funding for the military and national defense, with 44% in favor of increased funding. Similarly, views on humanitarian foreign aid vary, with 23% advocating for increased funding, 36% favoring maintaining current levels, and 39% supporting decreased funding.
The survey also revealed concerns about the impact of tariffs on the economy. A majority of respondents believe that tariffs will lead to higher prices for consumer goods (69%) and negatively affect the economy (53%). While opinions on the impact of tariffs on job protection are divided, with 35% believing they help safeguard U.S. jobs and 39% asserting that they harm employment opportunities.
Overall, the survey paints a picture of growing economic unease among voters, with a significant number expressing negative views on the state of the economy. The majority of respondents believe that inflation is spiraling out of control and express concerns about the likelihood of a recession in the near future.
As the nation grapples with economic challenges and uncertainties, it is clear that voters are closely monitoring government spending, fiscal policies, and the impact of initiatives like the DOGE program. The role of prominent figures like Elon Musk in shaping these policies continues to be a subject of scrutiny and debate among the American public.
