How DOGE’s cuts to the IRS threaten to cost more than DOGE will ever save
How DOGE’s cuts to the IRS threaten to cost more than DOGE will ever save
The Trump administration claims gutting federal agencies will save money, but cutting the IRS means the government collects less taxes. “If you’re interested in the deficit and curbing it, why would you cut back on the revenue side?” one expert asks.
Summary
Under the Trump administration’s “efficiency initiative,” spearheaded by Musk’s DOGE, over 6,000 IRS employees, many specializing in auditing wealthy individuals and corporations, were fired.
This action reverses efforts to address prior underfunding and staffing shortages within the IRS.
With studies showing the IRS generates $5-$12 for every dollar spent on audits, especially on wealthy taxpayers, experts like fired engineer Nershi argue that these cuts will reduce revenue, not save money.
Former IRS Commissioner Koskinen questioned, "why would you cut back on the revenue side?". Critics argue these cuts, framed as fiscal responsibility, will actually cost more through lost revenue and ultimately benefit "tax cheats."
