The Trump challenge: What is a better way to reform government than copying Elon Musk and DOGE?

The Trump challenge: What is a better way to reform government than copying Elon Musk and DOGE?

Author: Institute for Government May 14, 2025 Duration: 1:03:25
In contrast to the halting approach to reform from the current UK government, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have moved fast to slash staff and programmes. That has led some of those frustrated with the slow pace of government reform in the UK and elsewhere to see DOGE as a model for radical reformers. But what are the actual benefits – and costs – of the Trump administration approach? Is there anything to be learnt from DOGE, or is the whole approach misconceived? And what is the better, feasible model for reformers who want to deliver change at rapid pace while avoiding the DOGE template? To explore these questions and more, the IfG was pleased to bring together an expert panel featuring: Munira Mirza, former Director of the No.10 Policy Unit Don Moynihan, Professor of Public Policy, Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan Jeni Tennison, founder and Executive Director of Connected by Data Alex Thomas, Civil Service Programme Director at the Institute for Government The event was chaired by Jill Rutter, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government.

Ever wondered what really happens behind the doors of Whitehall? Institute for Government pulls up a chair at the table where policy is made and governance gets tested. This isn't about partisan politics or headlines; it's a deeper, more practical conversation about how the machinery of the UK government actually works-or sometimes, why it doesn't. Each episode brings you the experts from the Institute itself, along with senior civil servants, ministers, and analysts, for frank discussions that dissect the challenges of running a country. You'll hear specific case studies, analysis of major events as they unfold, and explorations of long-term issues like public service reform or the complexities of Brexit implementation. The goal is to move beyond theory and into the tangible details of effectiveness and accountability. Tuning into this podcast feels like gaining access to a privileged briefing, one that demystifies the processes that shape daily life. It’s for anyone curious about the structures of power, the art of the possible in policy, and the ongoing effort to improve how the nation is governed. Expect thoughtful, evidence-based dialogue that cuts through the noise to examine the levers of statecraft.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Institute for Government
Podcast Episodes
How can technology support place-based public services? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:58
This event is part of the Institute for Government's Labour Party Conference 2025 fringe programme. Speakers: Rt Hon John Denham, former Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Lea…
How can the government make its health reforms a success? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:52
This event is part of the Institute for Government's Labour Party Conference 2025 fringe programme. Speakers: Alex McIntyre MP, Member of the Health and Social Care Select Committee Kevin McKenna MP, Officer of the All-P…
How can industrial strategy drive growth? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:07
This event is part of the Institute for Government's Labour Party Conference 2025 fringe programme. Speakers: Lisa Bungeroth, Director of Public Affairs at Imperial College London Thomas Cawston, Corporate Affairs Lead a…
How could the UK take a prevention-led approach to healthcare? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:13
The Liberal Democrat manifesto committed to keeping people out of hospital by investing in public health and early access to community services. Prevention is also central to the government’s plans for improving healthca…
How can local places ensure devolution delivers economic growth? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:24
The government’s devolution plans are centred on devolving more powers out of Whitehall into the hands of the local leaders, and giving local places control of key policy areas like skills, transport, and housing. But qu…
Boosting trade and unlocking investment in an uncertain world [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:12
President Trump’s return to the White House has reshaped the world trade order – posing risks, but also offering opportunities, for the UK. What can be done to make the UK become a more attractive destination for foreign…
Sir Nick Clegg in conversation: Big tech, AI and political conflict [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:20
The former deputy prime minister, in his only fringe event at this year’s Liberal Democrat conference, spoke to IfG director Hannah White about Keir Starmer’s Donald Trump strategy, Elon Musk’s interventions in British p…