Photo: Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images News / Getty Images
After 100 days leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Elon Musk acknowledged that while progress has been made, it is not as effective as he hoped. Musk, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, initially aimed to cut $2 trillion in government spending but has since revised the goal to $150 billion. As reported by The Washington Post, Musk estimated that DOGE would save $160 billion by fiscal year 2026, though specifics remain vague.
"I think we've been effective, not as effective as I'd like, I think we could be more effective, but we made progress," Musk said during a meeting with members of President Trump's cabinet on Wednesday (April 30).
"I think it's possible to do that, but there's that. It's a long road to go and, you know, this, this, this really, it's really difficult," he added. "But our rate of savings per day is pretty good. You know, we're like, $1.6 billion a day, 100 days in."
Musk's efforts have faced legal challenges and public backlash, with critics arguing that DOGE's actions violate the Constitution. Many of DOGE's initiatives have been reversed or delayed due to legal setbacks. Despite these hurdles, Musk's team has significantly reshaped the federal government, gaining access to sensitive data and implementing mass layoffs.
Musk plans to reduce his involvement with DOGE to focus more on his private companies, including Tesla, which has seen a 71% drop in profits.