The War On Government
Who benefits when agencies are weakened?
It seems like there’s been a growing perception that all government agencies are nothing more than bureaucratic black holes, sucking up taxpayer dollars and offering little in return. But when did this idea take hold? And more importantly, is it actually true?
One way an autocrat takes over is by convincing people that government doesn’t work—and then instituting policies that make it true. By slashing funding, firing key personnel, and sowing distrust, bad actors create inefficiencies that reinforce their narrative. This cycle weakens institutions that serve the public and concentrates power in the hands of a few.
My family’s story is deeply tied to public service. My father served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam conflict, risking his life to fly into hostile territory—bringing supplies to American troops, recovering the fallen, and ensuring that those who served were supported. My mother also served in the Air Force and later dedicated her career to the General Services Administration (GSA), an agency that helps keep the government running efficiently.
Their service instilled in me a deep respect for the role of government—not as a faceless monolith, but as a collective of people who work to make the country function, often in ways that go unnoticed.
The Government Agencies That Improve Lives Every Day
While there are certainly instances of inefficiency and mismanagement in any large organization, the blanket claim that all government agencies are a waste of money simply doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. Consider just a few examples of agencies that play a crucial role in the lives of everyday Americans:
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – If you’ve ever flown, you’ve relied on the FAA to ensure planes take off, land, and navigate safely. The recent firing of probationary air traffic controllers—who take two years to train—has effectively shut down the pipeline, putting our aviation system at risk.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – The NIH funds life-saving medical research, helping to develop treatments and cures for diseases that affect millions.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Through grants and subsidies, the USDA helps farmers grow the food that feeds the nation. Without these programs, food insecurity would skyrocket.
Medicaid & CHIP – These programs provide healthcare to low-income families, improving maternal and child health outcomes while reducing overall healthcare costs.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – When disaster strikes, FEMA is on the ground providing relief to communities devastated by hurricanes, wildfires, and other crises.
Department of Education (DOE) – Federal grants and student loan programs make higher education accessible to millions of students who would otherwise not be able to afford it. The DOE also ensures that children with disabilities receive the resources and support they need through programs like 504 plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), helping them thrive in school.
Social Security Administration (SSA) – Provides financial support for retirees and disabled individuals who have spent their lives contributing to society.
USAID – Despite its tiny budget, USAID helps farmers, feeds starving people, and spreads goodwill for the U.S. around the world. It also treats diseases before they reach American shores. What USAID does is called soft power, and it’s critical for diplomacy and security.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) – Nuclear safety is a matter of life and death. The NRC ensures that nuclear facilities operate safely, preventing catastrophic accidents that could devastate communities.
Government Accountability: Auditors Are Not Political Operatives
One argument often made by those who distrust government is that agencies are unaccountable. However, the reality is that multiple mechanisms exist to ensure transparency and efficiency. Independent auditors, such as the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and the Inspector General offices, conduct rigorous audits to track how taxpayer dollars are spent. These organizations are impartial and nonpartisan; they do not fire people based on political whims, nor do they exist to serve a particular party’s interests. Their sole purpose is to uphold integrity in government spending and operations.
One major misconception is that agencies like the so-called Department of Government Oversight and Efficiency (DOGE) have auditing authority. This is false—DOGE is not a real government agency and has no legal standing to conduct audits or enforce changes. In reality, DOGE is composed of programmers and engineers, not auditors, and its leadership has clear conflicts of interest—particularly regarding Elon Musk and his Department of Defense contracts. DOGE has provided no transparency, nor has it presented any concrete evidence of fraud.
The Bigger Picture
So, when did people start believing that all government agencies are a waste of money? The roots of this belief go deep, often tied to political rhetoric that benefits from painting government as the enemy. But the reality is far more nuanced. Yes, waste exists—just as it does in private industry. But to claim that all government functions are useless ignores the very real benefits that millions of Americans rely on every day.
Public service is not just a career—it’s a calling. My parents answered that call, as did countless others who work in government to ensure that our society functions. Perhaps it’s time to shift the conversation away from blanket condemnation and toward a more informed discussion about how to improve efficiency while recognizing the invaluable contributions of public servants.