US President-elect Donald Trump has named billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk and Republican politician Vivek Ramaswamy as heads of the newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This strategic appointment comes as Trump gears up to streamline federal operations during his term starting in January 2025.
Tasked With Transforming Federal Bureaucracy
Announcing their roles, Trump stated that DOGE’s mission is to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies and reduce wasteful government spending. “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for dismantling bureaucracy and slashing excess regulations,” Trump said, emphasising that this is a core component of his “Save America” agenda.
Elon Musk, known for his innovative mindset, called the appointment a game-changer. “This will send shockwaves through the system, and anyone involved in government waste, which is a lot of people!” he remarked in the statement.
A Long-Standing Republican Vision
Trump likened DOGE to a modern-day “Manhattan Project,” underlining its importance in reshaping federal operations. He expressed confidence in Musk and Ramaswamy’s ability to overhaul the $6.5 trillion annual government expenditure, rooting out fraud and inefficiency while improving the quality of life for Americans.
“This department has been a Republican dream for years,” Trump noted, positioning DOGE as a pivotal element in his government reform plan.
Ramaswamy Withdraws Senate Bid
Following the announcement, Ramaswamy confirmed on X that he would no longer seek the Ohio Senate seat, leaving the decision to Governor Mike DeWine. “Whoever fills JD’s seat has big shoes to fill, and I’ll support them however I can,” he assured his followers.
Musk’s Ambitious Budget Cut Plans
During the campaign, Musk hinted at the potential to slash $2 trillion from the federal budget, exceeding Congress’s annual agency spending, including defence. However, such cuts could target popular programs like Social Security, Medicare, and veterans’ benefits, sparking intense debate.
With DOGE at the helm, the Trump administration aims to set a new precedent in federal governance, prioritising efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
