DOGE Revises Savings Projections Amid Fraud Findings

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has drastically revised its savings projections for the fiscal year 2026, reducing the anticipated savings from government waste and fraud to $150 billion, down from earlier targets of $1 trillion and $2 trillion. This reduction follows findings of significant unemployment insurance fraud, including claims by individuals with improbable ages and birth dates, amounting to $382 million in fraudulent claims. DOGE's investigation revealed thousands of claims by individuals supposedly over 115 years old or not yet born. Despite the reduced savings target, Musk and the Trump administration emphasize improvements in efficiency and accountability in federal spending. The revelations have sparked public concern and calls for punitive measures against those responsible for the fraud. Additionally, DOGE's actions have included controversial layoffs at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, impacting Tesla regulation.