Coinbase Fast-Tracks Ex-DOGE Staff Amid Musk Deregulation Backlash

Hours after a Fox News clip went viral, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong urged disillusioned staff from Elon Musk’s embattled DOGE task force to “jump ship,” unveiling an ultra-fast hiring lane at the exchange, according to an X post on May 13.

Coinbase Launches Accelerated Interview Process For Ex-DOGE Staff

“This is an open call for any @DOGE staff,” Armstrong wrote in reply to a Fox News video where one young DOGE employee documents the social challenges of working on the controversial initiative.

“If you are looking for your next mission after serving your country, consider helping create a more efficient financial system for the world at @Coinbase ,” Armstrong said. “We’ve set up an accelerated interview/hiring process in recognition of your proof-of-work.”

In the clip from Fox News posted by a random user on X, one DOGE staffer, reported to be Ethan Shaotran, claims he has suffered social setbacks from working for the Elon Musk-led operation.

“Speaking for myself, I dropped out of Harvard and came here to serve my country, and it’s been unfortunate to see lost friendships—most of the campus hates me now,” the DOGE employee said.

“I hope people realize through conversations like this that reform is genuinely needed,” the former Ivy League student continued.

DOGE, Elon Musk Under Public Scrutiny

Formed in January 2025 under U.S. President Donald Trump, DOGE— no relation to the cryptocurrency —seeks to reduce federal “red tape” and excessive government spending through substantial deregulation.

Critics argue that Musk’s leadership, in combination with mass federal layoffs and forced resignations, is harmful to the strength and stability of the federal government.

According to reports , DOGE has only slashed $160 billion from the federal budget despite the X CEO originally promising a cut of $2 trillion.

Musk, a longstanding proponent of the crypto sector , has faced serious backlash for his role as a special government employee, with several Tesla vehicles, dealerships, and charging stations attacked in response.

Despite recent gains in the stock market, the electric vehicle reported stark 2025 Q1 results in March, with net profits plunging by more than 71%. Musk is slated to slowly reduce his time at the White House as he returns to running Tesla.