U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, to spearhead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Announced Tuesday, the agency aims to cut government waste, reduce bureaucracy, and streamline federal spending.
Musk will be joined by biotech investor Vivek Ramaswamy, another prominent Trump supporter, as they work together to reform government structures and eliminate inefficiencies. Mr. Trump stated the duo would “drive out massive waste and fraud” across the federal budget, which exceeds $6.5 trillion annually.
Trump explained that the DOGE initiative, whose acronym references Musk’s cryptocurrency Dogecoin, will work to reduce the size and scope of federal agencies. He aims for the department’s goals to be achieved by July 4, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
“A smaller, more efficient government will be the perfect gift to America,” said Mr. Trump, emphasizing that Musk and Ramaswamy’s efforts will make government operations more accountable to the public.
During his campaign, Mr. Trump frequently discussed plans for DOGE, proposing it as a “Manhattan Project” for government reform. He emphasized the importance of financial and performance audits to support his administration’s promise of transparency and cost-cutting.
The department, designed as an advisory body outside government channels, will provide strategic guidance on improving government operations. Mr. Trump anticipates Musk and Ramaswamy will help “liberate the economy” while keeping federal spending in check.
Both Musk and Ramaswamy were active in Trump’s campaign, with Musk donating millions and Ramaswamy rallying biotech sector support. Trump’s decision to involve them marks a significant step toward his vision of a streamlined federal government.
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