President Trump signed an executive order integrating Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) into the federal government, aiming to reduce spending and streamline operations. Musk, appointed to lead DOGE, emphasized accountability and common-sense controls on federal funds.
President Donald Trump and Elon Musk convened at the White House on Tuesday for a significant meeting. Trump signed an executive order formalizing Musk's role leading the Department of Government Efficiency ( DOGE ), aiming to streamline federal agencies and collaborate with Musk on his initiatives to reduce spending.
The Associated Press obtained a White House fact sheet detailing the order, which underscores the administration's commitment to advancing Musk's efforts to slash government expenditures.This marks Musk's first public discourse on his work overseeing DOGE. Trump appointed Musk to head the Department of Government Efficiency with the objective of eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse within government spending and reducing the considerable federal workforce, which exceeds 2 million individuals. In his remarks, Musk acknowledged the presence of capable individuals within the federal bureaucracy but emphasized the need for accountability. He characterized the bureaucracy as an 'unelected' fourth branch of government and stressed the urgent need to address the budget deficit.Musk further articulated his vision for implementing 'common-sense controls' on federal spending, asserting that taxpayer dollars must be judiciously allocated. He refuted criticisms of his initiative as a hostile takeover of the government, stating that the public had voted for substantial government reform, which is what they will receive. He asserted that this aligns with the principles of democracy. Trump echoed Musk's sentiments, highlighting the billions of dollars already identified as savings through DOGE's efforts, citing instances of fraud and abuse. He pointed to a case in New York involving a hotel receiving $59 million in federal funds for housing migrants. However, according to the New York Times, the federal funds were appropriately allocated by FEMA under President Joseph R. Biden Jr. last year, emphasizing that it was not a disaster relief grant and had not been spent on luxury accommodations.DOGE, Trump's special commission tasked with reducing federal spending, was initially headed by billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. They jointly pledged to cut billions from the federal budget and implement 'mass headcount reductions' across the federal bureaucracy. However, Ramaswamy recently departed DOGE as he contemplates a gubernatorial run in Ohio. DOGE's operations largely occur behind closed doors. Team members have visited various agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Treasury Department, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, among others. Their visits are never publicly announced, and career staff members are cautious of unfamiliar faces in the hallways.Integrating DOGE into the government structure may facilitate easier access to information across agencies. The agency could potentially conduct much of its work behind closed doors, although some regulations regarding governmental disclosure will remain in effect. For instance, the Executive Office of the President is generally exempt from many Freedom of Information Act requirements but is subject to the Presidential Records Act, ensuring the preservation of its records.Donald K. Sherman, executive director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, expressed concerns that Trump has granted Musk 'unprecedented power and authority over government systems' with 'maximal secrecy and little-to-no accountability.' A lawsuit filed in federal court shortly after Trump's inauguration alleged that DOGE's operations prior to the administration's start violated the Federal Advisory Committee Act, a 1972 law requiring advisory and other private committees within the executive branch to adhere to public disclosure rules regarding staffing and activities. Groups behind the lawsuit, including good government advocates and watchdog organizations, are currently reviewing Trump's order integrating DOGE into the government
DONALD TRUMP ELON MUSK DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY DOGE FEDERAL SPENDING GOVERNMENT REFORM ACCOUNTABILITY TRANSPARENCY
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Trump Integrates Musk's DOGE into Government, Sparking ControversyPresident Trump signs an executive order integrating Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) into the federal government, aiming to reduce spending and streamline bureaucracy. Musk's appointment and DOGE's secretive operations have sparked controversy and legal challenges.
Read more »
Musk Defends DOGE Amidst Criticism, Stands with Trump on Reshaping GovernmentElon Musk defended his controversial 'Department of Government Efficiency' (DOGE) alongside President Donald Trump, facing criticism over its cost-cutting measures and potential conflicts of interest. The pair signed an executive order aimed at shrinking the federal workforce and limiting hiring.
Read more »
Elon Musk Takes on Government Spending as 'Special Government Employee'Elon Musk has been appointed as a 'special government employee' to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an advisory commission focused on reducing government spending. This designation allows Musk to work for the government without being a full-time employee, with certain limitations on the number of days he can work. Trump emphasized that Musk's DOGE will operate under White House approval and Musk won't always have his way. Musk, known for his outspoken views on social media, highlighted the public's support for cutting government spending.
Read more »
Trump 2nd term live updates: Musk 'not gaining anything' from DOGE, Trump tells Baier'In fact, I wonder how he can devote the time to it,' the president said.
Read more »
Schumer Accuses Musk's DOGE of Overreaching, Musk Slams 'Bureaucracy'Sen. Chuck Schumer criticizes the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, for exceeding its authority and influencing federal spending without legitimate power. Musk counters by claiming DOGE is addressing the concerns of American taxpayers and fighting against bureaucratic waste.
Read more »
Elon Musk Sleeps at DOGE Headquarters as He Seeks to Control the Federal GovernmentElon Musk has been sleeping at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) headquarters in Washington, DC, as he works to exert control over the federal government. This move mirrors his behavior at Tesla and Twitter (now X), where he was known to sleep at the company offices during intense periods. The news highlights Musk's deep involvement with President Donald Trump and his strategy of immersing himself in work to drive his vision.
Read more »