Alabama state leaders talk Department of Government Efficiency

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — The Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, is taking action to save federal money. Some Republicans say the cuts are necessary. But, Democrats say there will be consequences.

“I am so proud of what Elon Musk is doing,” said Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover). “Everyday is like Christmas.”

“It’s frightening. And I am afraid of the future of our nation right now,” said Rep. Thomas Jackson (D-Thomasville).

Lawmakers see that future differently. DOGE’s website shows some Social Security offices in Alabama have been closed. Those include buildings in Anniston, Cullman, Mobile, Gadsden, and Jasper. Rep. Susan DuBose said some services, like Social Security, can now be utilized online.

“So, if this can be done just as well online without these brick-and-mortar buildings and expenses, then that saves the taxpayer money,” said DuBose. “And that’s exactly the kind of thing that we need to be doing.”

Sen. Keith Kelley (R-Anniston) said it will be good in the long run, but he does have concerns. “We’ve been assured that there won’t be any lack of services. But, what about the people who do not have internet services? What about those that have different disabilities that need to talk to someone one-on-one?” said Kelley.

Rep. Jackson said federal programs are being taken away. “The people that’s on fixed income, and depend on social programs to get them through each month, are gonna suffer the more,” he said. “And really, I’m disturbed.”

Sen. Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro) said there’s even more at stake. “It’s hurting institutions like UAB, right here in this state. Millions, hundreds of millions of dollars could be taken from our research hospital,” said Singleton. “We could lose doctors in the state.”

The agency says it has saved the country some $65 billion, according to their website.