US President-elect Donald Trump has selected Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to spearhead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aiming to overhaul the federal bureaucracy. In a statement, Trump praised Musk, the Tesla CEO, as “great,” and described Ramaswamy, an Indian-American entrepreneur, as a “patriot.” Their mission will be to dismantle government red tape, cut excessive regulations, curb wasteful spending, and restructure federal agencies.

Trump likened DOGE to "The Manhattan Project" for government efficiency, underscoring its significance in reshaping the federal administration. He set a completion target for July 4, 2026, aligning with the nation’s 250th anniversary, saying that a more streamlined government would be a “gift” to Americans.

Roles and Responsibilities

Musk and Ramaswamy will operate from outside the government, offering "advice and guidance" to the White House and collaborating with the Office of Management and Budget to drive reform. Trump noted that Musk’s primary role is to bring his entrepreneurial vision to “cut waste,” an aspect the Tesla CEO himself affirmed, saying the initiative would “send shockwaves through the system.”

Ramaswamy, a former presidential candidate who endorsed Trump, echoed these sentiments, tweeting, "Shut it down," referencing his campaign slogan against government bloat.

Background and Security Concerns

Despite Trump’s announcement, the operational specifics of DOGE remain under wraps. Musk and Ramaswamy, as external advisors, are exempt from federal disclosure regulations. However, their appointments raise questions about transparency and oversight, especially given DOGE’s focus on federal efficiency and accountability.

Trump previously hinted at creating an efficiency commission, a concept previously seen during President Ronald Reagan's tenure with the Grace Commission. The President-elect also emphasized that Musk’s extensive responsibilities, such as SpaceX, may prevent a full-time role.

Musk and Ramaswamy’s Campaign Support

Musk has been a vocal Trump supporter, contributing over $100 million to his campaign and rallying support across social media. Trump commended Musk as “amazing and super genius” during his victory speech, noting Musk’s efforts on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania. Following the election, Musk even joined a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, arranged by Trump.

With their leadership, Trump envisions DOGE driving systemic change in line with his “Save America” movement, with a goal to create a government that is leaner and more effective by 2026.