Elon Musk has put out a surprising call for applications via social media to recruit highly skilled people to work for the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will advise President-elect Donald Trump. The proposal, which calls for “high-IQ revolutionaries” to work 80-plus hours a week, promises to be hard, unpaid work focused on cutting government spending and making structural reforms to the US government. Despite the lack of compensation, Musk describes the offer as a “huge opportunity” for those who want to make a significant difference.
DOGE, led by Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, will be tasked with transforming the functioning of the US government in a business-like fashion, as announced by Trump. The office, while not part of the federal government, will work in conjunction with the White House and the Office of Management and Budget. The department's mission will end in 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of US independence, marking a key date for the project.
The announcement has sparked criticism and ridicule on social media, especially for the lack of compensation and the announcement of two leaders to head a department dedicated to efficiency. However, for many, this move could be a sign of Musk and Trump's intention to bring a business mindset to politics, which could have important repercussions for the future of the American government and its relationship with the private sector. Are we witnessing a true political revolution or simply a media stunt? Time will tell.
