Defense Sec. Hegseth working with DOGE to ‘cut the bs’

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has recently announced plans for significant cuts and restructuring within the Pentagon through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). In a video released on Thursday, Hegseth discussed the upcoming changes that will be implemented to improve efficiency and reduce wasteful spending.

During the filming of the video, Hegseth revealed that he had met with DOGE officials to kickstart the review process. He emphasized the importance of their presence at the Pentagon and assured that they would have access to all necessary information while maintaining security protocols.

Hegseth highlighted the fact that many DOGE workers are veterans, which he saw as a positive aspect in identifying areas of improvement within the department. He expressed his commitment to eliminating redundancies and focusing on core missions rather than non-essential priorities set by the previous administration.

The Defense Department has already undergone significant budget cuts, reducing $50 billion, or 8%, from the budget allocated by former President Joe Biden. Hegseth clarified that these cuts were not about reducing funds but rather reallocating them to enhance the department’s capabilities and protect the American people.

As part of the restructuring efforts, the Defense Department will be reevaluating its probationary workforce, following a government-wide directive from President Donald Trump. Poor performers among probationary employees will be the first to be let go, with a focus on retaining the best talent for mission-critical roles.

DOGE has already terminated 3,600 probationary employees at the Health and Human Services department, with plans to cut 7,000 positions at the IRS during tax season. While the exact number of defense employees facing layoffs is unclear, the department is implementing a hiring freeze to assess its staffing needs.

In conclusion, Hegseth emphasized his dedication to ensuring the strength and readiness of the military. He expressed a commitment to building the most formidable military force on the planet to protect the nation’s interests.

The Department of Defense’s efforts to streamline operations and enhance efficiency reflect a broader push towards accountability and effectiveness within the federal government. By prioritizing mission-critical functions and eliminating wasteful spending, the Pentagon aims to better serve the American people and safeguard national security.