Elon Musk leaves DOGE amid controversy over government cuts

On May 30, 2025, Elon Musk's time as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) officially concluded, marking the end of a controversial 130-day period during which he sought to reduce government spending. This initiative focused on cutting wasteful expenditures and streamlining operations within federal agencies. Musk, who has a history of addressing issues in the public sector through innovative management strategies, faced significant challenges during his tenure. His time in this role was punctuated by public tension with President Donald Trump's spending bill, which Musk criticized for undermining his efficiency efforts. Musk's approach to government reform included a series of aggressive budget cuts and personnel reductions, which have been met with backlash from various sectors of the government and beyond. Reports indicate that his decisions have led to significant negative outcomes, including a notably high number of program disruptions and substantial opposition from both Democratic lawmakers and agency administrators. His attempts to make broad cuts to the federal budget fell short of his initial goals, with DOGE claiming to have saved approximately $175 billion, notably less than the projected $2 trillion Musk aimed for at the onset of his duties. Critics have highlighted the human cost of Musk's cuts, pointing to an increasing number of preventable deaths linked to reduced foreign aid programs under his influence. For instance, cuts in USAID have reportedly led to a rise in mortality rates among vulnerable populations in different regions. Academic assessments have also raised alarms that the aggressive restructuring enacted by Musk not only failed to achieve its fiscal objectives but also inflicted considerable harm on the functionality of critical services, including public health initiatives. Despite Musk's departure from DOGE, the White House has indicated he will continue to serve in an unofficial advisory capacity. In the lead-up to his exit, Musk's comments about the administration's spending proposals seemed to signal a growing rift between him and Trump, a relationship that had featured significant collaboration. The press conference scheduled on Musk's final day emphasized his lasting impact on the federal landscape and the contentious reception of his ambitious plans. Now, as he returns to the private sector, discussions about the legacy and implications of his time at DOGE continue to unfold amid partisan disputes and public concern about government efficiency.