A new report from the Government Accountability Office reveals hundreds of billions saved through oversight—but warns billions more could be wasted if Congress fails to act.
At a Glance
- GAO reports $725 billion saved since 2011 through implemented reforms
- 148 new recommendations target duplication, fraud, and audit gaps
- Persistent inefficiencies in IT, defense, and tax enforcement highlighted
- Chairman Comer urges Congress to continue tightening federal operations
- $100 billion in potential savings remains if GAO proposals are fully adopted
Billions Saved, but Billions Left
The GAO’s annual Duplication and Fragmentation report is sounding the alarm again. Though reforms driven by past GAO findings have already saved U.S. taxpayers over $725 billion, a fresh wave of 148 new recommendations targets chronic inefficiencies in federal programs. From outdated IT systems and bloated defense contracts to poorly coordinated mental health care between VA and DoD, the message is clear: Washington still hemorrhages billions it doesn’t need to.
“GAO’s excellent work has been a cornerstone of congressional oversight and decision-making for over 30 years,” said House Oversight Chair James Comer. “But today’s GAO report shows Congress still has work to do to rein in the runaway bureaucracy.”
Watch a report: Feds Could Save $100 Billion More
Where the Waste Hides
Among the most glaring issues: duplicative IT portfolios costing taxpayers hundreds of millions, flawed fraud detection across the defense sector, and lax audits of billions in federal awards. The GAO urges smarter data analytics and modernization of outdated systems like the Federal Audit Clearinghouse. One standout: revamping the Department of Interior’s data tools to ensure accurate oil and gas royalty collections—a change that could generate vast returns.
According to Government Executive, even unimplemented recommendations from prior years still hold a combined savings potential of $100 billion. These include empowering the IRS to bolster enforcement and eliminating waste across fragmented federal workforce development programs.
From Report to Reform
Since 2011, 71% of GAO’s proposed solutions have been put into action, leading to huge gains. But Chair Comer warns that the remaining 29%—along with new problem areas—must not be ignored. “This report can further serve as a blueprint for congressional action,” he said, calling on both chambers and the Trump administration to double down on fiscal responsibility.
From conservative watchdogs to nonpartisan technocrats, consensus is building that with smarter oversight, the U.S. government can do more with less. The stakes are clear: real accountability saves real money—and failure to act means letting waste win.
