Under President Trump's directive, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a review of spending practices at the Department of Education and the Pentagon. This initiative aims to identify inefficiencies and reduce wasteful expenditures within these government bodies.
During a press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, President Trump confirmed that he had personally asked Musk to undertake this review, anticipating the discovery of areas needing improvement. DOGE's mandate is to streamline government operations and curtail unnecessary spending, and its findings are expected to significantly influence White House budget policy.
Elon Musk is leading the Department of Government Efficiency. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
In a related development, DOGE has initiated the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), citing concerns about corrupt spending practices. Musk stated his intention to shut down the agency, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, now acting director of USAID, emphasized the need for the agency's operations to align with U.S. national interests and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio questioned USAID's effectiveness. (Mark Schiefelbein/The Associated Press)
DOGE has been tasked with cutting $2 trillion from the federal budget. This ambitious goal involves reductions in spending, government programs, and the federal workforce. Musk's involvement has drawn criticism, particularly from Senate Democrats who have raised concerns about DOGE's access to sensitive financial systems.
The Department of Education and the Department of Defense have substantial budgets, making them key targets for DOGE's scrutiny. President Trump has also expressed his intention to eliminate the Department of Education through an executive order, although Congressional action would be required to fully dissolve the agency.
Linda McMahon has been tapped to lead the Department of Education. (Mike Segar/Reuters)
President Trump has appointed Linda McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, to head the Department of Education, but ultimately envisions a shift towards state control over education, emphasizing school choice.
