DOGE reduces claimed savings by $150 million

Elon Musk's group, known as DOGE, has reported a significant change in its claimed savings from federal lease terminations. Initially, DOGE listed savings of around $500 million by targeting unused federal buildings. However, they have now removed over 100 leases from their list, reducing that figure by $150 million. DOGE acts as an advisory body aiming to cut federal spending and was established during Donald Trump's presidency. The group has focused on the leasing of government buildings as part of its efforts. Recent updates indicated not all planned terminations were successful, causing the drop in reported savings. The General Services Administration (GSA), which manages federal real estate, did not confirm specific details about the removed leases. However, they indicated they are reviewing options to optimize federal building use. The GSA stated they might withdraw termination notices based on current lease evaluations. Some Republican and Democratic lawmakers have intervened to protect federal buildings in their states. For instance, Rep. Tom Cole of Oklahoma secured continued operation for several facilities. Similarly, Sen. Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico halted the termination of a Department of Energy facility due to national security concerns. DOGE continues to assert that it has saved taxpayers around $115 billion in its short time of operation, despite revising its savings projections downward several times. The agency's future announcements regarding further property evaluations are anticipated.