DOGE Visits IRS, Raises Concerns Among Staffers

Gavin Kliger, a member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), visited the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to assess the agency's operations and identify non-essential consulting contracts for potential termination. His inquiries included a review of each business unit's responsibilities, upcoming goals, and associated risks, which reportedly left IRS staff feeling uneasy. While no sensitive information was accessed during Kliger's visit, Democratic Senator Ron Wyden expressed concerns about DOGE's potential access to taxpayer data, warning that it could lead to delays in refunds. President Trump praised DOGE's efforts and stated that the IRS would be scrutinized like other agencies, though he assured that it would not be shut down. This scrutiny is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to eliminate waste and increase efficiency in federal agencies. The visit has sparked significant anxiety among IRS employees amid the ongoing tax season.