The initial priority of the Department of Government Efficiency was to streamline its leadership, resulting in the departure of Vivek Ramaswamy. Following the inauguration of President Donald Trump, officials confirmed that Ramaswamy is no longer involved in the commission, leaving billionaire Elon Musk to manage the initiative independently.
Ramaswamy, a prominent figure in biotech and a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, has expressed intentions to pursue the governorship of Ohio in the upcoming elections. Hailing from Cincinnati, the 39-year-old entrepreneur had also considered running for the Senate seat vacated by Vice President JD Vance. However, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine appointed Lt. Gov. Jon Husted to fill the position instead.
“Vivek Ramaswamy’s contributions were pivotal in the formation of DOGE,” remarked Anna Kelly, a spokesperson for the commission. “Given his plans to seek public office soon, it is necessary for him to step away from DOGE to comply with our newly announced structure. We are truly grateful for his efforts over the past two months and look forward to his future contributions to the nation.”
Initially appointed by Trump, both Musk and Ramaswamy were tasked with leading DOGE, a non-governmental task force focused on finding methods to reduce the federal workforce, eliminate programs, and cut federal regulations as part of the President’s so-called “Save America” agenda for his second term in office.
Musk’s role in this initiative has drawn ethical scrutiny, particularly considering SpaceX’s significant defense contracts and its competitive position with NASA. His ventures, including Tesla, may also stand to gain from favorable actions taken during Trump’s administration.
Historically, ambitious moves to downsize the federal government have faced challenges, especially when proposed cuts affect programs that a vast number of citizens rely on for basic services, healthcare, military protection, and employment.
Ramaswamy, one of the wealthiest young individuals globally, has accumulated considerable wealth in the biotech sector before shifting focus to politics. He has gained recognition as a staunch critic of identity politics and programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aligning himself with Trump’s populist “Make America Great Again” campaign. After finishing fourth in Iowa’s initial caucuses, he endorsed Trump for the GOP nomination.
