Economic challenges and its growing trade deficit: redirecting workers from inefficient government roles into high-productivity positions within the private sector. According to the #Tesla CEO, this shift is essential for revitalizing the economy and fostering tangible growth. Musk’s comments followed his appearance on Capitol Hill, where he, alongside biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, outlined their vision to cut federal spending and reform bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Musk and Ramaswamy were appointed by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency(𝐃.𝐎.𝐆.𝐄.) , a strategic advisory body aimed at reviewing and restructuring government functions. Their role is not that of official government employees, but rather as outside advisers tasked with collecting data, developing solutions, and offering actionable recommendations. By July 4, 2026, they are expected to present their findings to the Trump administration, with an ambitious focus on eliminating wasteful spending while safeguarding essential programs like Social Security and Medicare.
During their discussions with lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Thom Tillis, the focus centered on reducing federal regulations and cutting excessive rules that drain economic resources. While (𝐃.𝐎.𝐆.𝐄.). is not a formal government agency, its function as a nimble advisory unit allows Musk and Ramaswamy to propose bold reforms without being hindered by traditional bureaucratic limitations. They are building a small team that will work closely with the Office of Management and Budget to ensure that their recommendations are implemented across federal departments.
One of (𝐃.𝐎.𝐆.𝐄.) early targets is to scrutinize large-scale government loans, such as the $6.6 billion given to Rivian Automotive, a competitor to Tesla. Musk has long criticized government subsidies, especially tax credits for electric vehicles, calling for their complete elimination. This aligns with the broader Republican agenda of reducing clean energy funding and promoting competition in the private sector. With an eye on regulatory reform, (𝐃.𝐎.𝐆.𝐄.). aims to identify unnecessary regulations and present them to President Trump, who could pause their enforcement through executive action, offering immediate cost savings and regulatory relief.