Reorganizing the Federal Government: What Needs to Be Done and How to Do It

President Trump issued Executive Order No. 13781 with the intent to “improve the efficiency, effectiveness and accountability of the Executive Branch.” The order directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to “propose a plan to reorganize governmental functions and eliminate unnecessary agencies.” However, achieving significant reforms as envisioned by the President will require more than just the OMB and executive agencies’ efforts. Many of the President’s desired reforms will require buy-in from Congress – a process that will open the door to the special interests and political games the President sought to drain from the swamp.