GAO hands Trump, DOGE roadmap on programs prone to fraud, waste and abuse
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently released a report highlighting areas within the federal government that are particularly vulnerable to fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement. This report comes just hours before a House Oversight Committee hearing to discuss the findings.
The GAO releases a report at the beginning of each Congress to identify federal programs that are at high risk for these issues. The 2025 High-Risk List includes 38 areas across the federal government that are in need of transformation or are seriously susceptible to waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. The report also includes recommendations for executive branch agencies and Congress to address these issues.
According to the report, the GAO’s recommendations over the past two years have resulted in $84 billion in savings, although progress has varied. This year’s report includes a new section dedicated to federal disaster assistance, particularly in response to the California wildfires and hurricanes that have devastated the Southeast.
GAO Comptroller General Gene Dodaro testified before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform regarding the report. Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., has characterized the report as a “roadmap” for the Trump administration and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to tackle inefficiencies within the federal government.
Chairman Comer emphasized the need for action to address bloated federal programs that are failing to meet their objectives and wasting taxpayer funds. He commended President Trump, DOGE, and Republicans in Congress for taking steps to address these issues.
The report also highlights the fragmented approach to federal disaster recovery, with over 30 federal entities involved in various programs and authorities. The GAO recommends improving processes for assisting survivors, investing in resilience, and strengthening FEMA’s disaster workforce and capacity.
Additionally, the report calls for reducing improper payments and fraud in programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, unemployment insurance, and the Earned Income Tax Credit. Recommendations also focus on enhancing cybersecurity efforts and understanding private sector technological developments.
Overall, the GAO’s report underscores the need for greater accountability and efficiency within the federal government to address waste, fraud, abuse, and mismanagement. It serves as a call to action for federal agencies, Congress, and the administration to take steps to address these critical issues.
