In an era of unprecedented technological advancement, our federal government’s computer systems remain stuck in a time warp.

• The Department of Defense still relies, in part, on 1970s-era computers with 8-inch floppy disks, while the IRS issues refunds based on code from the 1950s!

This technological stagnation isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a national security risk.

Enter the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), spearheaded by Elon Musk.

One of DOGE’s main objectives — hiding in plain sight?

To modernize federal IT systems to protect against cyber threats from foreign adversaries.

Their current focus? The Internal Revenue Service.

Your Rundown for Monday, March 17, 2025...

The Path to Postcard Tax-Filing (And More)

DOGE’s team is proposing a bold cost-cutting measure: cutting 20% of the IRS workforce by May 15, 2025.

This reduction, impacting an estimated 6,800 employees, stands in stark contrast to Team Biden’s plans. If you recall, the previous administration aimed to expand the IRS workforce/

But DOGE recognizes that modernization isn’t just about more people — it’s about smarter systems.

The juxtaposition is striking. Whereas Biden’s team envisioned an army of new IRS agents, DOGE sees an opportunity for a massive technological upgrade.

In today’s digital age, our tax system doesn’t need more desk jockeys; it needs more literal bandwidth.

But DOGE’s vision extends beyond mere workforce reduction.

It’s about fulfilling a promise made during Trump’s first term: the “postcard” tax filing.

Imagine a tax return so simple, it fits on a postcard. While previous attempts at this idea were more gimmick than substance, DOGE could make this a reality.

By modernizing the IRS’ IT infrastructure, DOGE could simplify the tax-filing process for millions of Americans.

No more wading through complicated forms or spending billions of hours on compliance.

A streamlined, user-friendly system could save taxpayers time and money while also ensuring more accurate filings.

However, simplification is only part of the equation.

As we move towards a more digital tax system, cybersecurity becomes paramount. DOGE understands this, perhaps better than anyone.

Their focus on data capabilities isn’t only just about improving efficiency — it’s about protecting American taxpayers from cyber threats.

With modern systems and robust cybersecurity, we can safeguard sensitive financial data from foreign adversaries and cybercriminals alike.

And DOGE’s efforts at the IRS might serve as a blueprint for modernizing other federal agencies, ushering in a new era of government efficiency and cybersecurity.

The antiquated systems of today could soon give way to the streamlined, secure technologies of tomorrow.

The postcard tax return, once a distant dream, could become a reality.

And with it, a federal government that’s leaner, more efficient and better equipped to serve and protect the American people in the digital age.

Market Rundown for Monday, March 17, 2025

S&P 500 futures are 0.35% to 5,670.

Oil is up 1.20% to $68 for a barrel of WTI.

Gold is down 0.15% to $2,996.20 per ounce.

And Bitcoin is up 0.10% to $83,200 at the time of writing.