Federal Tech Workers at 18F Face Layoffs, Prompting Advice from Mark Cuban
Over the weekend, a technology unit within the General Services Administration (GSA), known as 18F, underwent significant layoffs. This unit was responsible for enhancing federal websites, including updating the Internal Revenue Service’s free tax filing service and developing the central login system for various government programs like Social Security.
An internal memo issued by GSA deputy administrator Thomas Shedd confirmed the cuts, classifying the affected workers as “non-critical.” Shedd’s message, as reported by CBS News, indicated that the decision to eliminate these positions was made with “explicit direction from the top levels of leadership within both the Administration and GSA.” The memo also suggested further changes were on the horizon.
Elon Musk alluded to the layoffs on X (formerly Twitter) in February, stating that the 18F group would be “deleted.” Musk heads the Department of Government Efficiency, an entity that has already overseen the reduction of tens of thousands of government jobs.
According to Politico, the most recent cuts impacted approximately 70 employees. Moreover, about two dozen probationary 18F employees were let go in February as part of wider departmental cuts.
The GSA as a whole employs about 12,000 people and assists with presidential transitions while supporting other government agencies through technology and real estate oversight, among other tasks.
In response to the layoffs, Mark Cuban, of Shark Tank fame, weighed in. Cuban took to Bluesky on March 1, advising the laid-off workers to establish a consulting firm.
It’s just a matter of time before DOGE needs you to fix the mess they inevitably create. They will have to hire your company as a contractor to fix it. But on your terms. I’m happy to invest and/or help.
