Story perspectives

Ex-DOGE Staffer Faces Backlash Over ChatGPT Grant Controversy

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Nathan Cavanaugh, a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer, faced scrutiny in a deposition challenging DOGE's use of ChatGPT to cancel DEI grants.
He admitted to circumventing government data controls by sending files through personal channels.
Analysts criticized his deposition, labeling him 'arrogant' and raising concerns about DOGE's practices.
The lawsuit is supported by academic organizations, including the American Council of Learned Societies and the American Historical Association.

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Story summary

Nathan Cavanaugh, a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer, faced scrutiny in a deposition challenging DOGE's use of ChatGPT to cancel DEI grants.
He admitted to circumventing government data controls by sending files through personal channels.
Analysts criticized his deposition, labeling him 'arrogant' and raising concerns about DOGE's practices.
The lawsuit is supported by academic organizations, including the American Council of Learned Societies and the American Historical Association.