
Key Points:
- Vivek Ramaswami Exits DOGE: Billionaire and Trump ally Vivek Ramaswami steps down from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to prepare for Ohio governor candidacy in 2026.
- DOGE’s Mission: Created by President Trump, DOGE aims to streamline government by reducing programs, firing federal employees, and cutting regulations, with Elon Musk now solely leading the initiative.
- Elon Musk’s Role Sparks Controversy: Musk’s leadership of DOGE raises ethical concerns due to his defense contracts and competition with NASA.
- Ramaswami’s Statement: Ramaswami expressed confidence in Musk’s leadership and pledged continued support for Trump’s “Make America Great Again” agenda.
- Ohio Governorship Goals: If elected, Ramaswami would become the first Indian-American governor of Ohio.
Washington, D.C.: In a dramatic move just hours after President Donald Trump took office, billionaire entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswami stepped down from his role in the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Ramaswami, who co-led the initiative alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk, confirmed his departure to focus on his bid for the Ohio governor’s office in 2026.
Ramaswami announced his decision on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “It was an honor to help establish DOGE. I am confident Elon Musk and his team will successfully streamline the government. I look forward to sharing my plans for Ohio soon.” Accompanying his statement was a photograph with Musk captioned, “A new morning.”
Ramaswami’s Political Aspirations
Before entering politics, Ramaswami built a fortune as the founder of a successful biotech company and is now among the world’s wealthiest individuals. A staunch supporter of President Trump, Ramaswami had once considered running for the U.S. presidency. His decision to pursue the Ohio governorship could make him the state’s first Indian-American governor, marking a historic milestone in American politics.
“Vivek Ramaswami played an essential role in the creation of DOGE,” said Anna Kelly, spokeswoman for the DOGE Commission. “While we’re sad to see him leave, we understand his decision to focus on his political aspirations.”
DOGE’s Ambitious Agenda
President Trump announced the creation of DOGE following his victory in the November 2024 election. Tasked with cutting government spending by eliminating redundant programs and reducing federal regulations, the initiative is central to Trump’s pledge to “Make America Great Again.” Ramaswami was instrumental in shaping DOGE’s framework, which aims to save billions in taxpayer dollars.
Elon Musk Takes the Lead Amid Ethical Concerns
With Ramaswami’s departure, Elon Musk will lead DOGE independently. However, Musk’s involvement has drawn criticism due to potential conflicts of interest. SpaceX, one of Musk’s companies, holds lucrative defense contracts and competes with NASA, raising questions about how his decisions could benefit his businesses.
Critics argue that Musk’s dual roles as a private entrepreneur and a public policy leader may undermine the agency’s credibility. Despite the concerns, the White House has expressed full confidence in Musk’s ability to lead DOGE effectively.
A Historic Milestone for Indian-Americans?
Ramaswami’s gubernatorial campaign promises to inject new energy into Ohio’s political landscape. If successful, he would not only make history as Ohio’s first Indian-American governor but also further solidify his role as a prominent figure in American politics.
With Trump’s administration beginning on a bold note, DOGE’s progress under Musk’s leadership and Ramaswami’s political journey are likely to dominate headlines in the months to come.