Author Michael Lewis emphasizes that many Americans are unaware that federal civil servants take an oath of office. “I didn’t know,” he admitted, reflecting on his own ignorance even after writing extensively about government workers. “So, I assume not many do.”
The Civil Service Oath of Office, as stated in U.S. Code § 3331, includes a solemn promise to support and defend the Constitution and to fulfill the duties associated with one’s role.
Lewis, known for his bestselling books and films that delve into various data-driven topics—from Wall Street to sports—believes in the importance of challenging prevailing assumptions, particularly regarding federal employees often labeled as faceless bureaucrats. “That’s the stereotype,” he remarked.
He argues that those who harbor distrust toward the government often lack an understanding of its functions. “People think they don’t like the government or don’t trust it, but in reality, they are unaware of how much they rely on it. They take that trust for granted; every time they drink tap water, fly on an airplane, or deposit money in their bank, they are putting their trust in the government.”
Lewis also observes that American society tends to prioritize personal ambition, with a strong focus on financial success and fame. He finds it remarkable that some of the most valuable individuals, who are driven by public service rather than wealth or recognition, contribute significantly to government work. “These individuals are vital, and they are motivated by a sense of purpose,” he stated.
In his upcoming book, “Blockers: Rebels in the Deep State,” set to be released on October 6, Lewis explores the experiences of government employees who faced challenges from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative promoted by President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk.
Musk has claimed that cutting government services could save “at least $2 trillion,” targeting employees he labeled as “blockers.” “It’s an insult,” Lewis commented, noting Musk’s directive to his younger staff at DOGE to identify and eliminate these so-called blockers who hindered progress.
A pivotal figure in “Blockers” is Kathleen Walters, who formerly held a senior position at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), where she was responsible for safeguarding taxpayer information. Regarding President Trump’s executive order that established DOGE, Walters stated, “Executive orders are standard procedure, and our role is to implement them as long as they are lawful.”
When asked if she aimed to obstruct executive orders, she clarified, “Absolutely not. I’ve served under every administration since Bush, and this is typical.” However, she found the dynamics shifted drastically after DOGE’s formation. Walters reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began seeking information on undocumented individuals who had been paying taxes, leading to concerns about the legality of such requests. “They estimated that there could be around seven million individuals,” she noted, expressing skepticism about the validity of such extensive investigations.
After months of resistance, Walters ultimately chose to resign from her position. “After I left, the IRS ended up providing the data,” she remarked.
Subsequent audits by the Treasury Department’s Inspector General revealed that ICE did not adhere to required safeguarding standards, and federal courts determined that privacy rights had been infringed. While the Trump administration maintains that its actions were lawful, Walters felt compelled to leave the IRS when it became clear she could not prevent what she perceived as illegal activities. Reflecting on her difficult decision, she said, “While it was fundamentally a straightforward choice, the execution was challenging, especially since I was just days away from qualifying for early retirement and raising an elementary-aged child.”
Walters recounted how her daughter reacted to her struggles: “She’s a bright child, and I explained at a high level that I was being asked to break the law, which I couldn’t accept. Shortly after, she offered me a $10 bill from her savings, saying she wanted to help at home. I had to secretly return it to her piggy bank! I know she understands my choices, and I take comfort in knowing I made the right decision, even though it was difficult.”
As discussions surrounding DOGE continue, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), an independent federal watchdog, found that DOGE had exaggerated its savings and failed to meet its stated objectives. In response, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which oversees the federal workforce, commended DOGE’s efforts, asserting that the President is dedicated to responsible management of taxpayer funds while providing services to the American populace.
