Musk Ends 100-Day DOGE Role, Plans Part-Time Advisory

Elon Musk is stepping back from his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), President Donald Trump’s signature cost-cutting initiative, after serving nearly 100 days in the role. Musk’s term as a special government employee is expiring, but he plans to continue advising the administration on a part-time basis, dedicating one or two days a week while refocusing on his businesses such as Tesla and Starlink. He likened his departure to the enduring influence of Buddha, asserting that DOGE's mission will persist without his direct leadership and expressing confidence in the team’s ability to continue. Despite reports that Tesla’s board is seeking his successor, Musk and Tesla have denied these claims. During his tenure, Musk claimed DOGE saved the government $160 billion—though this figure remains unverified—and shared anecdotes of his informal relationship with Trump, including overnight stays at the White House. Musk emphasized that DOGE has become a “way of life,” aiming for further government savings and ongoing reforms.