DOGE builds on the United States Digital Service, now rebranded as the U.S. DOGE Service. According to Trump's executive order, the newly rebranded department will cut red tape and streamline government IT systems. Per the EO, DOGE has roughly 18 months (July 4, 2026) to achieve the administration's goal.

A union and watchdog groups say the new “Department of Government Efficiency” is rife with conflicts of interest and violates the law.

Advocacy groups have targeted Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency in lawsuits for allegedly violating transparency rules to advise Trump.