Despite pledges to slash federal spending, President Donald Trump’s return to the White House has seen a $220 billion increase in government expenditures compared to the same period in 2024, according to a CBS News analysis. This jump contradicts Trump’s campaign vow to reduce government costs. Trump had created the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, claiming $170 billion in savings. However, these figures have not been independently verified.
Spending Increases by Sector
Key drivers of the spending surge include Medicare, Social Security, military funding, veterans’ services, debt interest, and agriculture. Immigration enforcement costs also spiked, with 350 deportation flights costing up to $27,000 per hour and total estimated program costs reaching as high as $88 billion annually.
Workforce Cuts and Policy Shifts
While federal spending has risen, the administration has implemented major workforce reductions, especially in education, as part of plans to shrink government operations. Trump has said these cuts aim to remove “bureaucratic fat.”
Contradictory Trends
The CBS analysis raises questions about the feasibility of balancing new policy goals with cost-cutting promises. While some savings may emerge long-term, early data suggests rising expenditures—even as the administration attempts to downsize select programs.
Observers and analysts remain skeptical about whether Trump’s spending strategy will align with his fiscal pledges as the term progresses.
