The IRS is currently under significant strain following the loss of nearly one-third of its tax auditors amid workforce reductions driven by DOGE cuts and political pressures, particularly under former President Trump. The agency has seen an 11% reduction in its total workforce, which includes widespread layoffs affecting taxpayer experience and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) staff. As a result, the IRS is struggling to manage its core mission, potentially impacting the efficiency of tax collection and processing during a critical filing season. Employees have voiced their concerns through rallies, highlighting fears that these cuts could lead to slower tax returns and affect taxpayers negatively. Amid this turmoil, the IRS is compelled to implement mandatory overtime for remaining employees to tackle the growing backlog, raising questions about the sustainability of its operations moving forward.