Elon Musk-backed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is introducing an AI-powered chatbot to federal workers while continuing to reduce the government workforce. The department, tasked with modernizing federal technology, has rapidly expanded the deployment of its chatbot, GSAi, according to a report from Wired.
AI Chatbot for Government Workers
DOGE has launched the GSAi chatbot to approximately 1,500 government employees, following a smaller pilot involving 150 General Services Administration (GSA) workers in February. Sources indicate that DOGE has significantly accelerated the chatbot’s rollout in response to widespread staff reductions.
The AI tool has been designed to support various government tasks while ensuring security compliance. Initially, it is intended for general use but may later analyze contracts and procurement data. The chatbot can assist with:
- Email drafting
- Creating talking points
- Summarizing documents
- Writing code
However, employees have been cautioned against inputting nonpublic federal information or personally identifiable data into the system.
Employee Reactions
Reactions to GSAi have been mixed. One employee described the tool as “about as good as an intern,” noting that it often provides generic or predictable responses. The chatbot interface resembles OpenAI’s ChatGPT and utilizes AI models such as Anthropic’s Claude Haiku 3.5, Claude Sonnet 3.5 v2, and Meta’s LLaMa 3.2.
Layoffs at the GSA
The chatbot launch coincides with large-scale layoffs at the GSA, directed by DOGE. More than 1,000 employees were abruptly dismissed last month, with plans to cut 63% of staff in the Public Buildings Service division. The department has also shut down the GSA’s technology consulting unit, 18F, which previously employed up to 100 tech professionals.
DOGE’s Push for Government Modernization
DOGE’s leadership has emphasized the need for improved technology to enhance government efficiency. In a 2024 Wall Street Journal op-ed, Musk and former co-leader Vivek Ramaswamy highlighted their vision of streamlining government operations through technology and a lean team of experts.
The department has attracted engineers and former employees from Musk’s various technology companies to lead its initiatives. DOGE was formally created by renaming the U.S. Digital Service, an office originally focused on recruiting private-sector tech experts for government service.
Backlash from Former Employees
Critics argue that DOGE has betrayed the mission of its predecessor, the U.S. Digital Service, which was nonpartisan and aimed at improving government digital services. Former employees claim DOGE has been “weaponized” for political purposes, undermining its original intent.
Despite the controversy, DOGE continues to expand its technological initiatives, including AI integration, while maintaining aggressive workforce reductions.
