Ciscomani Lauds DOGE Efforts Amidst Alarming Protests Against U.S. Fascism

U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani has expressed support for the Trump administration’s initiatives aimed at reducing federal spending, particularly through Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative. During a recent fireside chat with Javier Palomarez of the U.S. Hispanic Business Council at Loew’s Ventana Canyon Resort, Ciscomani discussed the administration’s early actions.

The Southern Arizona congressman emphasized the importance of Congress in codifying necessary legislation. He stated, “Congress’s role now is to be able to codify the things that we need codified into law.” He expressed concern over transient executive orders, advocating for a more stable legislative approach to governance.

Ciscomani criticized political leaders from both parties for losing a sense of fiscal responsibility, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. He urged for a reevaluation of federal spending practices. “It’s imperative to reduce spending,” he asserted, reflecting a growing sentiment among fiscal conservatives.

Under the Trump administration, Musk has reportedly been working with a dedicated DOGE team to scrutinize federal records, with actions including the reassessment and potential reduction of various federal agencies. This initiative has raised eyebrows, especially as the administration seeks to consolidate resources and cut costs.

Over the weekend, significant changes took place within federal agencies, including mass firings at the FAA and the FDA, with the Trump administration temporarily reversing the dismissal of many nuclear weapons personnel at the National Nuclear Security Administration. Additionally, the acting commissioner of the Social Security Administration resigned in defiance of DOGE operatives who sought access to confidential records.

Federal courts have intervened, blocking some of DOGE’s actions while Musk has called for the impeachment of judges who have hindered these efforts. On broader governance issues, Trump’s administration has relaxed longstanding regulations, raising questions about foreign influence on U.S. policy.

Ciscomani, a member of the newly formed DOGE Caucus in the House, met with Musk and House Speaker Mike Johnson earlier this month, further demonstrating his alignment with Trump’s agenda. “My approach is to ensure government spending is held accountable,” Ciscomani noted.

However, not all reactions have been supportive. Protests erupted near the Ventana Canyon Resort where Ciscomani spoke, with residents expressing outrage at the administration’s policies. “My democracy is gone,” lamented Steve Bauer, a Vietnam War veteran, reflecting a deep-seated concern among some Americans regarding the state of governance.

Others shared similar frustrations. Jennie Bennett, another protestor, criticized the DOGE initiative, asserting it lacks legitimacy and should involve Congressional oversight instead of relying on a billionaire’s discretion. “No corporation would allow a stranger to go through their records,” she remarked.

Criticism also came from Arizona Democrats, including Sen. Mark Kelly, who labeled Musk as an “unelected” force negatively impacting safety and prosperity. Kelly’s remarks underscore a growing partisan divide over how to approach federal spending and management.

In contrast, some supporters of the Trump administration, such as Lea Marquez Peterson of the Arizona Corporation Commission, welcomed the cost-cutting measures amid escalating national debt concerns. “Our federal debt has exceeded $36 trillion, so I understand the importance of even the disruptive activities we’ve had recently,” she stated, reflecting a belief that severe measures may be necessary to address financial challenges.

The discourse surrounding federal spending reform and the roles of Musk and Trump continues to evoke diverse opinions across Arizona, highlighting an increasingly polarized political landscape.