DOGE's Telework Debate: Balancing Austerity and Employee Retention

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, appointed by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency, are advocating for federal employees to return to in-person work, aiming to reduce costs and potentially prompt voluntary resignations. While flexible work arrangements existed pre-pandemic, the Office of Management and Budget has pushed for increased in-person work post-pandemic. However, telework policies vary significantly across federal agencies, and changes could face challenges from union agreements. Critics argue that a blanket return-to-office mandate may not yield significant savings and could drive talent to the private sector.