Uncertainty Surrounds Leadership of New U.S. DOGE Service as Gleason Named Acting Administrator

The Trump administration's newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) faces questions about its leadership structure, with Amy Gleason's recent appointment as acting administrator conflicting with Elon Musk's apparent operational control.

According to multiple sources [1,2,3], while President Trump publicly recognized Musk as DOGE's leader during a Congressional address, government lawyers have argued in court that Gleason holds the official leadership position. The White House only recently acknowledged Gleason's role after weeks of refusing to clarify the leadership structure.

DOGE claims to have achieved over $100 billion in savings through widespread federal workforce reductions and agency closures, though these figures remain unverified [1]. The organization's activities have sparked multiple lawsuits questioning its constitutional authority.

Gleason brings significant government technology experience to the role, having previously served in the United States Digital Service from 2018-2021. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she developed critical data systems for the federal response while working under Dr. Deborah Birx [3].

The leadership confusion emerged during recent court proceedings when U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly raised concerns about potential violations of the Constitution's appointments clause, as Musk has not received Senate confirmation [1].

Internal sources speaking anonymously indicate Gleason's exact portfolio remains unclear, though she has been actively involved in DOGE's hiring processes. Twenty-one staff members reportedly resigned in protest of Musk's initiatives, while Gleason chose to accept her current position [3].