United States DOGE Service: The Role of the Acting Administrator (2025–2026)
The transition of federal digital infrastructure underwent a significant shift between 2024 and 2026. Central to this evolution was the transformation of the United States Digital Service (USDS) into the United States DOGE Service, an entity closely linked to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This period was marked by a complex leadership structure involving private sector advisors and government officials.
The Transition to the DOGE Service
The groundwork for this transition began in December 2024, when Brad Smith, founder of Russell Street Ventures, started advising Elon Musk on the Department of Government Efficiency. During this time, Gleason rejoined the United States Digital Service on December 30 and began consulting with Smith and Steve Davis regarding the new efficiency initiatives.
Gleason played a pivotal role in overseeing the agency's structural move from the Office of Management and Budget to the Executive Office of the President of the United States. While she publicly identified as a senior advisor at the USDS in January, she continued to influence the agency's direction, including recommending new applicants such as Luke Farritor during the final weeks of the Biden administration.
Leadership and Administration
On February 25, the Trump administration confirmed that Gleason had been serving as the acting administrator of the United States DOGE Service. While the Department of Government Efficiency was effectively led by Elon Musk, the specific start date of Gleason's tenure remained ambiguous. A Department of Justice lawyer later informed a federal judge that he could not determine who led the service prior to the announcement, though he confirmed it was not Musk.
Within the organization, Gleason acted as a critical liaison. On February 18, she and Kendall Lindemann met with employees who had transitioned from the USDS to the DOGE Service, serving as a bridge between existing staff, new DOGE employees, and other government agencies.
Operational Dynamics
Despite her title as acting administrator, Gleason was largely distanced from the daily operations of the DOGE Service. Many of her primary responsibilities were assumed by Steve Davis. This separation allowed her to pivot toward specialized federal projects in the health sector.
Modernizing Federal Health Systems
In February, Gleason was detailed to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was formally hired on March 4. Her focus shifted toward the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), where she led initiatives to modernize data and IT systems.
Her work at CMS focused on the modernization of Medicare and Medicaid, specifically leading a plan to standardize how data is shared between the federal government and private companies. During this tenure, Gleason advocated for two primary improvements: a larger federal workforce and expanded access to patient data.
Key Facts
- Agency Shift: The United States Digital Service was transitioned into the United States DOGE Service.
- Organizational Move: The agency moved from the Office of Management and Budget to the Executive Office of the President.
- Leadership: Gleason served as acting administrator, while Elon Musk effectively led the Department of Government Efficiency.
- Health Sector Impact: Gleason led IT and data modernization efforts for Medicare and Medicaid at CMS.
- Key Collaborators: Brad Smith (Russell Street Ventures) and Steve Davis were central to the DOGE consulting process.
| Period | Role/Organization | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 2024 - Jan 2025 | Senior Advisor, USDS | Transition to DOGE Service and agency relocation |
| Feb 2025 | Acting Administrator, US DOGE Service | Liaison between employees and government agencies |
| March 2025 onwards | HHS / CMS Lead | Modernizing Medicare and Medicaid IT systems |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who effectively led the Department of Government Efficiency?
While Gleason served as the acting administrator of the United States DOGE Service, the Department of Government Efficiency was effectively led by Elon Musk.
What was the primary change in the agency's location?
The agency moved its operational home from the Office of Management and Budget to the Executive Office of the President of the United States.
What was Gleason's role at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services?
Gleason led efforts to modernize IT and data systems for Medicare and Medicaid, including the standardization of data-sharing between the government and private companies.
Who handled the operational responsibilities of the DOGE Service?
Although Gleason held the title of acting administrator, her operational responsibilities were largely assumed by Steve Davis.
What improvements did Gleason advocate for in the federal workforce?
Gleason called for an increase in the size of the federal workforce and sought greater access to patient data to improve health services.