The Clinton administration conducted a thorough audit, eventually laying off 351k people [1]. But they did so using a six-month review of all agencies performed by experienced federal workers. They ensured there were no national security ramifications and provided severance.

Reagan also had the Grace Commission [2].

[1] https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/06/politics/doge-musk-gore-rego-...

[2] https://www.history.com/news/ronald-reagan-grace-commission-...