Expert reveals massive levels of waste DOGE can slash from entitlements, pet projects: ‘A lot of fat’

As Democrats continue to criticize Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) efforts, accusing them of causing a “constitutional crisis,” government spending expert James Agresti shed light on the opportunities for cuts in entitlement programs. Agresti, the president of the nonprofit research institute Just Facts, highlighted the staggering $2 billion in improper payments at the Social Security Administration (SSA) in 2022, which could have covered the benefits of nearly 90,000 retired workers in 2023.

Agresti emphasized that there is significant waste in Social Security and other entitlement programs. For instance, a 2010 report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) revealed that the SSA had mistakenly provided disability benefits to around 7,000 federal employees who were still receiving wages from their jobs. Additionally, the GAO found that over 71,000 stimulus checks were sent to deceased individuals, including cases where the agency had been informed of their deaths.

President Donald Trump and Elon Musk have raised concerns about fraud at the SSA, particularly related to illegal immigrants using Social Security numbers to claim benefits. Agresti cited a study from 2010 showing that 800,000 noncitizens were working under Social Security numbers obtained through false birth certificates, enabling them to receive benefits.

Agresti also highlighted problems at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), where improper payments for child tax credits are issued to the children of illegal immigrants without thorough verification. He described these actions as theft from taxpayers and called for greater accountability in government programs.

While noting that Social Security is relatively better managed compared to programs like Medicare and Medicaid, Agresti pointed out that improper payments in these areas are substantial. He criticized the IRS for essentially functioning as a welfare program due to refundable tax credits and highlighted high levels of improper payments, particularly with the earned income tax credit and child tax credit.

Despite Democratic criticism of Trump and Musk’s DOGE efforts, Agresti defended their intentions, stating that the goal is to prevent fraud and ensure that legitimate benefits reach taxpayers. He criticized the opposition for misconstruing the efforts to address inefficiencies and fraud in government programs.

Agresti concluded by stressing the need for accountability in government agencies and the importance of addressing waste and fraud to protect taxpayer funds. The federal government, with its vast size and complex operations, requires diligent oversight to prevent misuse of public resources.

Andrew Mark Miller, a reporter at Fox News, can be reached on Twitter @andymarkmiller or via email at AndrewMark.Miller@Fox.com.