On January 20, 2025, The Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE was created by an Executive Order of the President of the United States. The purpose of DOGE as per Section 1 of that order is “to implement the President’s DOGE Agenda, by modernizing Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity.” Whether you believe the recent actions of this department align with the stated purpose, what is clear and undeniable is the fact that thousands of federal workers continue to be laid off and government agencies substantially reduced in size.
DOGE on paper seemed like a beneficial initiative to Americans by cutting inefficiencies, saving taxpayers money by reducing waste, streamlining government services, and ensuring that public funds are spent wisely. However, what the public has witnessed is the unintended consequences that are affecting working-class people and entire communities. U.S. citizens across our nation are feeling the strain of financial uncertainty and communities are facing economic challenges.
One of the most significant impacts has been the reduction of government services and job cuts in public-sector agencies. As DOGE pushes for “greater efficiency,” many government employees have found themselves facing layoffs or reduced work hours. Farmers are deeply concerned about the ability to pay their outstanding loans and keeping their farms. Veterans have been severely impacted as jobs were terminated at the VA and contracts for services were placed on the chopping block. Federal workers who are also credit union members are without employment and still have financial obligations to meet. As these problems mount, credit unions will need to step in and provide assistance in this seemingly DOGE-eat-Dog world we are now living in.
These purported cost saving measures by DOGE have left thousands of workers scrambling to make up for lost income. Moreover, as government services become less accessible, communities are also feeling the pinch. Americans of modest means, especially those in underserved areas, rely on public programs such as healthcare, education, and social services. The scaling back of these programs has left many without the resources they once depended on. Additionally, the reduced workforce at these agencies often results in slower processing times for essential services and benefits, like Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security. This creates further stress for individuals who are already struggling to stay afloat financially.
Under DOGE, government programs will continue to face cuts, and financial uncertainty will continue to rise, while many families and workers find themselves caught in a "DOGE-eat-DOG" world. In this economic tough environment, credit unions will need to play a crucial role in providing much-needed support to their members and communities. Because credit unions are not-for-profit financial institutions they exist to serve their members, rather than to make a profit. This difference sets them apart from other financial institutions. Credit unions focus on the well-being of their members, and they provide services that are more affordable and accessible than those offered by many larger financial institutions.
The true strength of credit unions lies in their ability to help people through difficult times. When government programs fail to provide enough assistance, or when workers are laid off, credit unions are often able to bridge the gap and offer more flexible, personalized support. Many credit unions have specialized programs to help members who are facing financial hardship due to job loss, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances. Some credit unions offer programs designed specifically for unemployed members, providing them with low or no-interest loans or financial counseling. These programs allow workers to access the funds they need to cover bills, rent, and other expenses until they can get back on their feet. This is particularly important at a time when the government’s safety net is becoming less reliable due to so-called efficiency measures.
The DOGE-eat-DOG driven world may be tough, but credit unions are uniquely positioned to offer relief. By continuing to provide affordable financial services, personalized assistance, and community-focused programs, credit unions can help ease the burden faced by workers and families. As DOGE continues to impact citizens, credit unions will remain a reliable resource for those in need, providing not just financial services, but hope and support for a better future. It is more important than ever for people to know they have access to institutions that genuinely care about their well-being. In a DOGE-eat-DOG world, credit unions are proving that community, compassion, and cooperation are key to navigating the challenges of uncertainty in a “new normal.” Through their commitment to serving members and supporting local communities, credit unions offer a beacon of hope for individuals looking to weather the storm.
