Florida DOGE report flags alleged excessive spending in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties

Here’s what DOGE’s ‘audit’ allegedly found in St. Pete

When asked if any positive outcomes resulted from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) scrutinizing St. Petersburg’s spending, Mayor Ken Welch said, “No, because it wasn’t a true audit.” Welch, speaking Tuesday night at the State of the Bay forum, had yet to receive a final report on what DOGE allegedly discovered in August 2025. That came Wednesday afternoon… Source

Florida DOGE report flags alleged excessive spending in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties

A report from the Florida Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) claims a review of Hillsborough County, Pinellas County and Manatee County found examples of "excessive spending," citing DEI initiatives and other expenses.Read full report from DOGE: Florida DOGE Report Jan 2026 by Tampa Bay 28 According to the report, DOGE has reviewed 13 jurisdictions so far, which "identified broad themes in local government spending growth and a wide arra…