Washington, D.C. – Elon Musk has officially stepped down from his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the White House announced on May 30, 2025. With Musk shifting focus back to his business ventures, leadership responsibilities within DOGE will now be assumed by President Donald Trump and his Cabinet.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed that the entire presidential Cabinet, alongside President Trump, are committed to continuing efforts to eradicate wasteful government spending, fraud, and abuse. "The DOGE leaders are each and every member of the President's cabinet -- and the president himself -- who is wholeheartedly committed to cutting waste, fraud and abuse from our government," Leavitt stated.
Elon Musk expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead DOGE, highlighting his commitment to reducing excessive federal spending. Musk tweeted, "As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending. The DOGE mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government."
President Trump praised Musk's contributions, describing him as "terrific" and emphasizing that despite the formal departure, Musk's involvement with government efficiency initiatives would persist. Trump announced a final press conference with Musk to be held on May 31, 2025, at the White House.
During the 2024 presidential campaign, Musk pledged to reduce $2 trillion in federal waste, a goal later revised to $1 trillion following Trump's second term inauguration and Musk's increased financial backing for the campaign. The Department of Government Efficiency credits itself with savings of approximately $160 billion through contract cancellations, asset sales, and other fiscal reforms since its inception.
Musk's tenure at DOGE attracted both praise and criticism due to his significant influence on federal policy decisions. However, the administration remains committed to carrying forward his cost-cutting agenda under its direct oversight.
