Overview

• Elon Musk has stepped back from daily leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as scrutiny grows over its performance and credibility.
• Originally aiming for $2 trillion in federal savings, DOGE has only achieved $160 billion, raising concerns about the viability of its approach.
• Critics, including Rep. Johnny Olszewski, argue that DOGE's aggressive cuts have disrupted civil services, displaced tens of thousands of workers, and jeopardized essential programs like medical research and veterans' services.
• A recent Washington Post–ABC News–Ipsos poll shows widespread public disapproval of Musk's handling of government efficiency efforts.
• Olszewski has highlighted Baltimore County's methodical audit process, which identified $771 million in potential savings, as a model for achieving sustainable and transparent government reforms.