

Many cloud providers (the cheap ones in particular) will put patches on top of the base distro, so sometimes root always gets a password. Even for Ubuntu.
There are ways around this, like proper cloud-init support, but not exactly beginner friendly.
DOGE is not meant to cut spending. It is to systemically root out opposition within the executive branch and promote the business interests of Trump, Musk, and their cadre.
This is a distraction to keep you occupied while they do something far worse.