DOGE

When the Trump Administration took office, and established DOGE, one of the first programs that was reviewed, and eventually dismantled, was USAID.  The Administration said the $40 billion organization, which employed thousands of people, was wasting taxpayer funds and not doing the work it was established to do.  Many in...

USDA has warned its 100,000-plus employees that major staff cuts are coming, offices will be closed, and people will need to relocate to keep their job.  USDA employees have been given the option to quit with up to six months in pay if they choose to take it.  Citing ...

Some Oregon officials worry the back-and-forth nature of federal government lay-offs will have long-term impacts on future hiring needs.  At a recent town hall meeting with Oregon Congressional Democrats, several federal employees said actions by DOGE and the Trump Administration are pushing out good workers.   “...

Earlier this week, Oregon’s senators sent a letter to the Ag Secretary, regarding staffing shortages at the ARS after mass firings by the Trump Administration.  Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley said they are concerned about the impacts these shortages will have on the farmers, ranchers and fisherman across the state, and across the country, and their ability to remain competitive.  The senators ... Read

Earlier this month, thousands of U.S. Forest Service employees were fired, as part of an effort to downsize the federal government.  Isabella Isaksen was among those let go… and says the positions lost support wildfire efforts and other important work across Oregon.   “Permit...

The Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency recently announced on X that it wanted help examining the USDA, and those opposed to checkoff programs used the opportunity to voice their concerns.   Sunday’s post on X read:     “DOGE is seeking help from the public! Please DM this account wi...