As Democrats criticize Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) efforts, a government spending expert sheds light on potential areas for cost reduction within entitlement programs. James Agresti, president of the nonprofit research institute Just Facts, points out significant inefficiencies in programs like Social Security.
Agresti reveals that the Social Security Administration (SSA) made $2 billion in improper payments in 2022, equivalent to the benefits of nearly 90,000 retired workers. He emphasizes the need to address such wasteful spending, citing instances where federal employees received disability benefits while still earning federal wages.
Moreover, Agresti highlights concerns about fraud within entitlement programs, including cases of deceased individuals receiving stimulus checks and noncitizens exploiting Social Security numbers. He underscores the lack of accountability in agencies like the SSA and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), where improper payments are rampant.
Agresti criticizes the tolerance towards fraudulent activities, labeling it as theft from taxpayers and the government. He stresses the need for stricter oversight and accountability to prevent such abuses.
Comparing entitlement programs, Agresti notes that Medicare and Medicaid face even higher rates of improper payments, reaching levels of 20% in some cases. He points out the IRS's role as a de facto welfare program due to refundable tax credits, leading to substantial improper payments, particularly in tax credits like the earned income tax credit and child tax credit.
Despite Democratic opposition to DOGE efforts, Agresti defends the initiative as a genuine attempt to combat fraud and ensure the integrity of entitlement programs. He criticizes the misconceptions surrounding the administration's motives and urges a focus on addressing systemic issues within government spending.
Agresti concludes by highlighting the challenges posed by the federal government's size and complexity, emphasizing the need for enhanced accountability and efficiency in managing taxpayer funds.
