Slate News What Next TBD | Department of Government Elon
Jan 24, 2025
Teddy Schleifer, a New York Times reporter focusing on billionaires, delves into the quirky formation of the Department of Government Efficiency, known as 'Doge,' which draws inspiration from the viral meme. He raises eyebrows over how this initiative could clash with Elon Musk’s myriad government contracts. The discussion navigates the shifting dynamics between Musk and other tech leaders while questioning the ethical implications of mingling private sector ambitions with public governance, all against the backdrop of major political reforms.
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DOGE Website Evolution
- The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website initially featured a Shiba Inu dog.
- The dog has since been removed, leaving only a dollar sign and the tagline "The people voted for major reform."
DOGE's Realization
- DOGE started as a potential online joke but has now become a real government entity.
- Elon Musk is the driving force behind its development, raising questions about its purpose and potential conflicts of interest.
Trump's Efficiency Commission
- During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump proposed a government efficiency commission at Elon Musk's suggestion.
- Musk expressed interest in serving on this commission, highlighting a potential partnership between the two.