Gov. DeSantis’s new DOGE task force gains momentum: ‘Turn the lens inward’
Local jurisdictions and public universities in Florida are fully embracing Gov. Ron DeSantis’ new state-level DOGE Task Force, which was announced in February. The program, similar to the federal initiative led by Elon Musk, aims to uncover hidden waste, review state university and college operations and spending, eliminate redundant boards or commissions, and examine entities’ spending habits using artificial intelligence and other measures.
In March, Governor DeSantis issued official guidance to various counties, municipalities, public colleges, and universities, requesting their compliance with the audit. The guidance also mandated the appointment of a proxy to serve as the primary point of contact throughout the initiative.
Several of Florida’s largest jurisdictions, including Hillsborough County and the City of Jacksonville, as well as public institutions like Florida Atlantic University, have signaled their willingness to comply with the audit. Efforts include passing formal resolutions and establishing independent committees to support the initiative. Hillsborough County Commissioner Joshua Wostal emphasized the importance of the audit in uncovering inefficiencies, such as forgotten bank accounts holding millions of dollars.
In Jacksonville, the city formed a “Duval DOGE” task force, which has already begun meetings and is focusing on dormant capital improvement projects worth tens of millions of dollars. The task force recently launched a website to track the progress of the ongoing audit.
Despite some support for the initiative in Jacksonville, there has been pushback from residents like Russell Harper, who expressed concerns about the impact on the working class, elderly, and needy. Others criticized the lack of Democratic representation on the “Duval DOGE” committee and viewed it as a way to gain favor with political elites.
The DOGE Task Force will also address Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at public colleges and universities, ensuring that no state funds support these programs. This aligns with a resolution passed by the state board of education last year prohibiting such spending.
The governor’s office announced intentions to “abolish” 70 redundant boards and commissions across the state through the new audit. Governor DeSantis’ spokesperson, Brian Wright, highlighted Florida’s proactive approach to eliminating unnecessary boards, reducing spending, and strengthening the economy without raising taxes.
Commissioner Wostal emphasized that the DOGE audit provides a better alternative to raising taxes to fund essential services, urging the government to focus inwardly to ensure financial compliance and efficiency. The initiative represents a significant step towards fiscal responsibility and accountability in Florida.
