Let’s Cut the Fat

This letter to the editor, by John Krizek appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on April 24, 2025.

Eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government is essential to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly. But cutting tens of thousands of jobs without fixing root issues only increases waste and undermines federal missions.

Waste refers to inefficient or unnecessary use of government resources. While not always illegal, it shows poor stewardship. Examples include:

• Unneeded or excessive purchases

• Overpaying for goods or services

• Funding projects with no clear purpose

• Maintaining underused facilities

• Poor contract oversight or avoiding cost-saving methods

• Stockpiling or mishandling equipment

Fraud is intentional deception for unlawful gain. It includes:

• Submitting false invoices or claims

• Misrepresenting information on applications

• Billing for undelivered or unnecessary services

• Identity theft for benefits

• Bribery, kickbacks and conflicts of interest

• Suspicious patterns in documents or procurement

Abuse is misconduct or misuse of position that harms operations, even if not illegal. Examples include:

• Using government resources for personal gain

• Directing subordinates to do personal tasks

• Favoritism in contracts or overtime

• Extravagant or unjustified spending

• Harassment or discrimination

• Ignoring procurement procedures

Spotting waste, fraud and abuse takes awareness, policy adherence and vigilance.

Oversight bodies like Inspectors General and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) are key. Tools like GAO’s FraudNet and agency hotlines help report misconduct.

Despite safeguards, some political actors — like DOGE — push misguided strategies that weaken essential services under the guise of reform. Cutting personnel and infrastructure without structural fixes makes the problem worse.