**Podcast Summary: "Fired CDC Workers in Turmoil After Musk’s DOGE Cuts"
Title: The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell
Host: Lawrence O'Donnell, MSNBC
Release Date: March 18, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell, Lawrence delves deep into the turmoil caused by recent budget cuts orchestrated by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Trump administration. These cuts have profoundly impacted federal agencies, leading to the dismissal of dedicated CDC workers and jeopardizing vital public health and safety programs.

Impact of Musk’s DOGE and Trump’s Cuts on Federal Agencies

Lawrence opens the discussion by highlighting the widespread disapproval among Americans regarding Donald Trump’s handling of the economy and Elon Musk’s aggressive approach to dismantling federal agencies. Referencing recent NBC News polling, he notes:

"55% disapproving of [Trump's] handling of inflation and the cost of living, while 47% have a new negative view of DOGE" ([05:40]).

The cuts have not only destabilized crucial agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and the Social Security Administration but have also sparked fears about national security and the well-being of millions relying on these programs.

Personal Stories of Fired CDC Workers

A poignant segment features three former CDC employees—Sarah Boym, Abby Tai, and Stephanie Tran—who were abruptly terminated despite strong performance records. Their testimonies shed light on the human cost of these administrative decisions.

• Sarah Boym shares her shock:

  "My performance review was so good... and then I was fired like three days later for performance" ([07:05]).

• Abby Tai echoes similar sentiments:

  "I had a 4.75 out of 5... bumped me up to that from my self score because he was pretty impressed" ([07:20]).

• Stephanie Tran adds her perspective:

  "I worked my butt off" ([07:36]).

These accounts underscore the arbitrary nature of the layoffs and the profound personal and professional upheaval faced by these dedicated public servants.

Consequences for Public Health and Safety

Lawrence discusses the broader implications of these cuts, particularly the loss of critical personnel in the National Nuclear Security Administration and the Social Security Administration. The reduction in staff threatens to undermine the nation’s nuclear arsenal modernization and destabilize Social Security infrastructure.

David Farenthal reports on tragic outcomes resulting from these cuts:

"Peter became sick and died in late February... Abby Tai's efforts in overdose prevention have saved lives, but now there's a fear that these gains are being undone" ([04:00]).

These stories highlight the real-life consequences of funding reductions and the dismantling of essential government functions.

Transparency Issues with DOGE’s Efficiency Claims

Investigative reporter David Farenthal and former U.S. Ambassador Michael McFaul discuss the questionable reliability of DOGE’s claimed efficiencies. They reveal that DOGE’s "Wall of Receipts" is riddled with errors and lacks verifiable data, casting doubt on Musk’s assertions of cost savings.

"At least five of the 20 largest savings appear to be exaggerated... they don't really understand the machinery, the rules of government" ([15:29]).

This lack of transparency makes accountability nearly impossible and raises concerns about the true impact of DOGE’s initiatives.

Legal Battles Over the Alien Enemies Act

The episode shifts focus to the Trump administration’s controversial invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport Venezuelan immigrants, despite the absence of an ongoing war with Venezuela. Barbara McQuaid, a law professor, explains the legal precariousness of this move:

"If I didn't comply with a judge's verbal order, I would be expected to be called on the mat" ([23:57]).

Federal Judge James Boasberg’s firm stance against the administration’s disregard for court orders underscores the brewing constitutional crisis.

Destruction of Black Lives Matter Plaza

A deeply emotional segment recounts the symbolic destruction of Black Lives Matter Plaza in Washington, D.C. The plaza, a permanent concrete monument commissioned by Mayor Muriel Bowser, was torn down under pressure from Republican Congressman Andrew Clyde, who threatened millions in transportation funding.

Lawrence reflects:

"The process of erasing BLM Plaza was underway... it was a painful metaphor for America in a second Trump administration" ([36:00]).

This act signifies a larger pattern of undermining civil rights symbols and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the nation.

Trump’s Relationship with Putin and Public Disapproval

The episode explores President Trump’s planned phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin amidst escalating tensions. Tulsi Gabbard and Michael McFaul critique Trump’s approach to Russia, especially in light of overwhelming public disapproval:

"81% disapprove of [Putin]" ([40:11]).

Gabbard emphasizes the dangers of aligning closely with Putin, arguing that the U.S. must prioritize its national interests over personal friendships with foreign leaders.

Conclusion

Lawrence O'Donnell wraps up the episode by reiterating the dire consequences of the Trump administration’s and Elon Musk’s actions on federal agencies and public welfare. The episode calls for accountability, transparency, and a recommitment to protecting the institutions that safeguard American lives and uphold democratic values.

Notable Quotes

• Sarah Boym:

  "I was very depressed and despondent, but I think I've moved on from that. And now I'm just really angry at the injustice that has been done" ([12:11]).

• Abby Tai:

  "It's important that we have these really strong government foundations, especially in public health... we deserve to be a healthy country" ([10:12]).

• Michael McFaul:

  "They're trying to dismantle parts of the federal government... They're unlikely to find the parts that are wasteful and need to go" ([16:26]).

• Tulsi Gabbard:

  "We have no shared mission with Putin. We need to stop Putin... You gotta get something out of talking to them" ([42:34]).

This episode provides a comprehensive examination of the ongoing struggles within the U.S. federal government, the erosion of essential services, and the broader implications for democracy and public trust. Through personal testimonies, expert analyses, and incisive reporting, Lawrence O'Donnell highlights the urgent need for action and reform.