OPINION: Streamlining Governance: What Tonga Can Learn from the US Department of Government Efficiency
As a dual citizen born in Tonga, who was adopted into the US and moved back to Tonga last year, I often reflect on how advantageous it would be to implement systems like the Department of Government Efficiency, commonly known as DOGE, within our own government. Such reforms could foster public confidence and potentially prevent issues such as votes of no confidence.
To restate views noted by my friend Steve, a retired President of many Banks in the US, regardless of personal views, Donald J. Trump has assumed the position of President of the United States and has just completed his first month in office. During this period, he has enacted over 70 executive orders and confirmed nearly all of his cabinet members, while the Senate and House continue to engage in various legislative and budgetary matters. Trump is making substantial progress in fulfilling the promises he made to the American people who voted him in as President.
One of the most significant initiatives generating discussion in Washington is the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency, referred to as DOGE. This department is led by billionaire Elon Musk, who acts as a special unpaid advisor to the president. The DOGE team utilizes innovative technologies to verify and identify inconsistencies in transactions within government agencies. When potential issues arise, the team investigates and recommends appropriate solutions.
Supporters, particularly among Republicans, argue that DOGE is effectively streamlining the federal bureaucracy, enhancing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In contrast, many Democrats perceive it as a threat to democratic values. Despite these differing viewpoints, a considerable portion of the American public believes the federal government is overly bloated and frequently operates ineffectively. This sentiment likely contributed to the low approval ratings of the former president and vice president, resulting in a significant electoral and popular vote defeat in November 2024.
The primary goal of DOGE is to eradicate waste, fraud, and potential criminal activities while reorganizing the federal bureaucracy to enhance its efficiency and productivity. DOGE claims to have uncovered $55 billion in savings and has identified numerous transactions and contracts that require further scrutiny. Although the amount is debatable, the department has also been involved in layoffs and restructuring within federal agencies, advocating for the elimination of those deemed unnecessary, such as USAID, and potentially even the Departments of Education and Energy. If successful, DOGE could lead to a major transformation that aligns more closely with the founding principles of the United States, promoting a minimal and streamlined federal presence while empowering states to take on more responsibilities.
So, how can we adopt the principles of DOGE in our everyday lives? The emphasis on eliminating waste and unnecessary programs is a philosophy that individuals, families, and businesses should embrace. It’s essential to carefully evaluate our income and expenses to ensure we are living within our means, making budgeting a vital practice.
In 1943, Abraham Maslow introduced his Hierarchy of Needs, which outlines five fundamental needs that drive human behavior: physiological, safety, love/belonging, self-esteem, and self-actualization. Each of these needs must be satisfied before progressing to the next level. Budgeting serves as a practical means to meet our basic needs for food and shelter, which fall under the physiological and safety categories. Recognizing the distinction between wants and needs is crucial for effective budgeting.
When assessing income, it’s important to document both confirmed and potential sources. Determine whether these sources are stable or variable, considering bonuses as potentially unreliable. Evaluate the consistency of these income streams and outline a plan for any new opportunities. Once you have a comprehensive understanding of your total income, you can then shift your focus to expenditures.
Next, prioritize your expenses. As Maslow highlights, fulfilling our physiological and safety needs involves ensuring adequate nutrition, clothing, and housing within our financial capabilities. By organizing expenses by importance, you can quickly discern what is manageable.
While opinions on DOGE may vary based on political beliefs, the fundamental concepts it embodies are applicable for everyday Americans and Tongans. Just as families should strive for balanced budgets, so too should federal, state, and our Kingdom’s governments. By eliminating unnecessary spending and managing resources judiciously, individuals and families can work toward achieving their aspirations and pursuing happiness. Ultimately, isn’t that what life is truly about?
Vea Law
Tonga for Tonga
