Elon Musk DOGE resignation is now official. The billionaire entrepreneur has stepped down from his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) — a position he assumed shortly after Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Musk’s term, limited by law to 130 days due to his financial status, expires on May 30, and attempts to extend his tenure were reportedly blocked by White House staff.
Elon Musk Thanks Trump, Bids Farewell to DOGE
In a post on social media, Musk thanked President Trump for the opportunity to “cut useless spending” and reduce bureaucracy. He added that the DOGE mission would live on, becoming a “way of life” for the federal government.
“Our work is only beginning,” Musk wrote, hinting at future influence over federal efficiency programs.
Reports had suggested Musk was considering ways to bypass the 130-day limit, but White House officials confirmed that his departure is final.
DOGE Office Saved $175B, But Critics Question the Math
While Musk’s term was filled with controversies and lawsuits, the DOGE office reported over $175 billion in savings for U.S. taxpayers. These savings, however, represent just 8.5% of Musk’s original $2 trillion goal, later revised down to $150 billion.
Critics have pointed out discrepancies in the reported numbers, calling the $175B figure “likely inflated.” Despite the skepticism, the reduction is among the most talked-about reforms of Trump’s second term.
Elon Musk’s Legacy at DOGE
During his time at DOGE, Musk oversaw the reduction of approximately 260,000 federal employees, or about 12% of the U.S. government workforce. This was achieved through layoffs and early retirement programs, according to internal figures cited by Reuters.
The resignation closes a unique chapter in the overlap of tech, politics, and federal management. While Musk’s cost-cutting initiatives gained praise from some fiscal conservatives, others warned of oversimplified solutions to complex structural inefficiencies.