DOGE, led by Elon Musk, is delving into the Department of Housing and Urban Development, eyeing substantial spending cuts and layoffs amidst a national homelessness crisis.
DOGE Taskforce Reviewing HUD Budget and Workforce
Members of Elon Musk’s DOGE team have initiated regular meetings at HUD to scrutinize the agency’s finances and staff structure for possible reductions. HUD Secretary Scott Turner revealed that the taskforce has identified $260 million in cuts so far.
Potential Impact on HUD Employees
While no official announcements have been made, speculations suggest that department cutbacks could lead to a 50% reduction in headcount and closure of numerous field offices. Antonio Gaines, representing HUD employees, anticipates significant cuts in various departments, including Policy Development and Research, Community Planning and Development, and Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.
Foreseen Changes in Programs
Gaines also predicts substantial cuts in programs like The Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes, raising concerns about the immediate impact on communities.
Reactions from Experts
Jesse Van Tol from the National Community Reinvestment Coalition expresses skepticism about the overall impact of DOGE on federal agencies, emphasizing the potential immediate repercussions of HUD layoffs on individuals.
