Cory Morgan proposes that Canada Should Implement a US-Style Plan to Drastically Reduce Government Bureaucracy

Commentary

Bureaucracies and civil services have long been considered untouchable in North America. Politicians often talk about finding inefficiencies and reducing government size, but rarely take action for fear of backlash.

However, President-elect Donald Trump has made a bold move by appointing Elon Musk to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) along with former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Trump has described this department as “The Manhattan Project of our time,” indicating a strong commitment to reform. These reforms will have an impact on public policy in Canada.

Elon Musk, known for his transformative work in various industries, has taken on this unpaid position out of a genuine desire for change. With the backing of the Trump administration, Musk aims to implement significant reforms. With Republicans dominating key branches of government, Trump has set a deadline for reforms to be completed by 2026. Efficiency measures are expected to be implemented swiftly, potentially disrupting longstanding practices.

Government bureaucracies worldwide are known for being inefficient, and Musk’s experiences in the private sector have equipped him to address these challenges. His past actions in streamlining companies, such as Twitter, demonstrate his ability to make tough decisions for long-term success. Musk is now applying this approach to government departments, aiming to identify and eliminate waste effectively.

While Musk won’t make drastic cuts across the entire government, significant reforms are expected. Both Musk and Trump are known for their disruptive approaches, and the downsizing of government is a key objective for them, despite potential challenges.

In Canada, policymakers are closely monitoring these developments. The country’s oversized government has been a point of concern, with government expenditures making up a larger portion of the GDP compared to the USA. The need for efficiency measures in Canada is pressing, as the government’s size is unsustainable and detrimental to economic growth.

The current Liberal government in Canada is preparing for public sector layoffs, recognizing the need for corrective action. Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre may also pursue similar reforms if elected, taking cues from Musk’s initiatives in the US.

Trump and Musk’s efforts to reduce government size could spark a trend towards fiscal austerity globally, including in Canada. These bold moves, while disruptive, may be necessary to address longstanding inefficiencies and promote economic growth.