Billionaire investor Mark Cuban recently offered support to federal workers who were laid off following a significant restructuring within the government’s technology sector. His message, shared on the social media platform Bluesky, encouraged those affected to leverage their circumstances to create new opportunities.
Mark Cuban’s Proposal
Cuban suggested that those who lost their jobs at the 18F technology unit could collaborate to form a consulting firm. He anticipated that the government would eventually require their expertise to rectify issues arising from ongoing changes. “It’s just a matter of time before DOGE needs you to fix the mess they inevitably created,” he stated, expressing his willingness to invest or provide assistance.
Background on the Layoffs
The layoffs occurred after the General Services Administration (GSA) disbanded its 18F unit, which played a vital role in assisting other federal agencies with their technology needs. According to reports, approximately 70 employees received notice of their termination early on a Saturday morning. This unit was known for developing crucial systems such as Login.gov, which offers secure access for the public to various government services.
Context of the Cuts
These layoffs are part of a broader directive initiated during the Trump administration aimed at reducing the federal workforce and curtailing spending. This initiative is reportedly influenced by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Previous layoffs at 18F took place earlier that year, impacting more than two dozen employees as part of staff reductions.
Current Government Dynamics
In the days leading up to the layoffs, affected employees received emails from DOGE requiring them to account for their weekly activities, a move that further contributed to job insecurity. These emails circulated widely, impacting personnel across multiple agencies including the IRS and the State Department.
Future Opportunities for Displaced Workers
Cuban’s proposal raises a pertinent question: Can these former government employees come together to form innovative startups that could provide services back to the government? Amid the ongoing dismantling of certain agencies, even Musk has acknowledged the repercussions tied to rapid changes, mentioning the unintended consequences affecting critical programs like Ebola prevention.
If Cuban’s vision comes to fruition, a group of these laid-off workers may indeed establish a company that could fill the void left by the government, potentially leading to a shift in how civic technology is developed and managed. One user on Bluesky even suggested the name “18FU” for such a startup, highlighting a creative response to the situation.