• Vivek Ramaswamy resigned from DOGE to prepare for a gubernatorial campaign in Ohio, aiming to succeed Governor Mike DeWine in 2026. 
  • Reports highlight growing tensions between Ramaswamy and Elon Musk over leadership dynamics and public criticism. 
  • DOGE scales back budget-cutting goals from $2 trillion to $1 trillion, drawing skepticism about its ability to achieve significant impact. 

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy announced his resignation from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) just months after his appointment. The decision comes shortly after President Donald Trump began his second term, leaving Elon Musk as the sole leader of the government advisory group focused on cost-cutting initiatives. 

In a statement shared on X, Ramaswamy expressed pride in his contributions to the organization. He voiced confidence in Musk’s ability to lead the initiative toward streamlining government operations. However, he remained tight-lipped about his next steps, teasing further announcements, particularly involving Ohio. 

Ramaswamy poised for Ohio gubernatorial campaign

Spokespersons who are in a good position to know said that Ramaswamy had a plan to contest for the post of Ohio governor in 2026 when the current governor, Mike DeWine, will finish his term. When elected, Ramaswamy will be joining the Ohio state politics, he has business experience. 

Anna Kelly, an official from DOGE, stated that the organization’s rules prohibit members from engaging in political campaigns while actively involved. Ramaswamy’s resignation aligns with this policy, allowing him to fully focus on his gubernatorial ambitions. 

Challenges in DOGE leadership dynamics 

Ramaswamy’s departure comes amid reports of tension within the advisory group. Sources revealed disagreements between Ramaswamy and Musk, citing a December social media post by Ramaswamy that criticized aspects of American culture. Insiders suggested Musk viewed these public criticisms as a distraction from DOGE’s mission, further straining their professional relationship. 

These internal challenges have added scrutiny to DOGE, which has faced criticism for scaling back its budget reduction goals. Originally aiming to cut $2 trillion, Musk recently revised the target to $1 trillion, citing feasibility concerns. This adjustment has drawn skepticism from analysts questioning the group’s ability to make substantial impacts without enforcement authority. 

Critics have questioned DOGE’s effectiveness, emphasizing its advisory nature and lack of executive power. Despite the ambitious goals set during its launch, the group has yet to deliver significant results, leading to doubts about its long-term viability. 

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Victor is a crypto journalist with over three years of experience in cryptocurrency trends and blockchain technology. With a background in IT, he applies analytical skills to explore digital assets. His work across media has refined his ability to create engaging, accurate content that simplifies complex topics for a wide audience.