A DBUNK subscriber submitted a request to verify an article published by The New York Times claiming that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) significantly overstated savings from a canceled contract. The article alleges that DOGE reported an $8 billion savings when, in reality, a federal database reflected a corrected figure of $8 million.
The full article can be found here: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/upshot/doge-contracts-musk-trump.html
What the Article Got Right
The article correctly identifies that the ICE contract with D&G Support Services was initially listed at $8 billion before being revised to $8 million in a federal database. It also rightly points out that DOGE continued to claim $8 billion in savings despite having a screenshot on its website showing the corrected $8 million amount.
Where the Article Misleads
1. The Intent of DOGE Is Speculative
The article strongly implies that DOGE intentionally misrepresented savings to make itself look more effective at cutting government costs. However, no evidence is provided that the error was deliberate rather than an oversight carried over from the earlier incorrect contract listing.
Given that the contract database showed the erroneous $8 billion figure until just days after the presidential transition, it’s equally plausible this was a database discrepancy rather than a willful attempt to deceive.
2. Missing Context on Government Data Errors
The article does not address how common contract database errors are, especially during administration transitions. Government databases regularly have discrepancies that require later correction, and failing to provide that context leaves out an important piece of the story.
3. Lack of a Response from DOGE
There is no indication that the authors reached out to DOGE for clarification on the discrepancy. Investigative standards typically require giving involved parties an opportunity to comment. Without such input, the claim that DOGE knowingly misrepresented data remains speculative.
Our Determination
The claim that DOGE exaggerated its savings by inflating an $8 million contract to $8 billion is true in the sense that the incorrect amount was publicly displayed. However, the article fails to prove intent and omits key context about government data handling. Readers should be cautious in assuming deliberate misinformation without further evidence.
Final Thoughts: Was It a Lie or a Mistake?
While DOGE should correct its records and be transparent about errors, there is no direct proof that it knowingly exaggerated savings. Given the timing of the contract revision, it is possible the $8 billion was simply a government database mistake that took time to update. However, until DOGE provides an explanation, public skepticism will remain justified.
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