The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has evolved since its establishment in January 2025. As DOGE 2.0, takes shape, many are questioning what it will look like moving forward.
In late June 2025, we hosted an exclusive panel discussion titled, “DOGE: Impacts and Opportunities.” The dialogue covered what the future of DOGE may bring, and how industry can navigate the evolving federal environment, considering the backdrop of shifting priorities, budgetary dynamics, acquisition reforms and workplace transformations.
Our panelists included Emily Murphy, former GSA Administrator; Rob Geckle, President and CEO of Airbus US Space & Defense; and Greg Little, Senior Counselor, Palantir. Chertoff Group Principal and Head of Federal Strategy Aaron Roth served as moderator.
At the heart of DOGE is the promise to increase efficiency through consolidated and streamlined IT acquisitions and an emphasis on insourced talent. It has started making good on those promises. The directive for GSA to take on government-wide IT contracting responsibilities is a major shift. In some cases, GSA will oversee complete contracting authority, as is the case for NASA.
DOGE initiatives have sparked debate about whether GSA is equipped to manage the scale, complexity and nuance of these procurements. As the government looks to realize greater economic benefit through the contracting process, other acquisition reform efforts are also making headway. This includes the push for agencies to bypass resellers and engage directly with OEMs. However, the potential costs are “to be determined” as industry adjusts their internal organizational structures and sales models to accommodate the shift.
As DOGE continues to drive its mission from the White House, some agencies are issuing their own reforms. One notable agency that has taken steps to institutionalize DOGE-like efficiencies is DOD. Memos, like the one issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to limit IT contracts, are supercharging the government’s efforts to justify spending. Underlying these changes is a push to reduce reliance on large consulting contracts, a response to long-standing concerns that outsourcing has hollowed out the government’s internal expertise. Yet these changes face structural challenges. Without consistent investment in workforce development, agencies may struggle to acquire and retain the skills they need to truly “own” their missions.
One thing is clear: DOGE is just getting started. It is continuing to reshape how the federal government buys, builds and delivers solutions. The Chertoff Group Federal Strategy team is positioned to help companies navigate this landscape. With expertise in federal acquisition strategy and policy, we can help you adapt your go-to-market approach and position for success in this increasingly outcome-driven environment.
