Michael Lewis Sheds Light on the Realities of Government Work in New Book

Author Michael Lewis argues that many Americans are not aware that civil servants in the federal government take an oath of office. This oath binds them to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. Lewis, who has written a book on the subject, admits he was also unaware of this fact when he started his research.

I, ___, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God.

In his earlier works, such as ‘The Big Short’ and ‘Moneyball,’ Lewis often challenges assumptions. His latest book, ‘Blockers: Rebels in the Deep State,’ looks at federal employees and their daily struggles, particularly under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), initiated by former President Trump and Elon Musk.

DOGE aimed to cut government expenses, claiming potential savings of $2 trillion, identifying ‘blockers’ as government workers who allegedly hindered these efforts. Lewis describes the term ‘blocker’ as derogatory, explained that Musk encouraged young employees at DOGE to remove such people.

The book spotlights Kathleen Walters, a notable character who challenges DOGE’s strategies. Walters, a former IRS executive, was in charge of safeguarding taxpayers’ information. She recounts her experience resisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) demands for taxpayer data. When ICE asked for data on undocumented workers paying taxes, Walters found the scale of the request suspicious. She eventually resigned when unable to prevent what she saw as a breach of privacy rights.

Michael Lewis emphasizes the importance of understanding and appreciating the role of government workers, who often operate without public recognition or substantial financial reward. He encourages readers to recognize the value these employees provide to society.

The Government Accountability Office reported that DOGE exaggerated its achievements and could not verify its claimed savings. Despite this, the Trump administration’s Office of Personnel Management praised DOGE, stating it was a catalyst for reforms aimed at reducing fraud and waste in government spending.

Lewis hopes his book prompts readers, especially the skeptics, to reconsider their perceptions of the government and its workers. He believes understanding the contributions of these largely anonymous workers is critical for societal appreciation.