Elon Musk has likened his eventual departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to the enduring legacy of Buddhism, suggesting the agency will thrive even without his continued leadership.
“Is Buddha needed for Buddhism?” Musk asked during a press briefing at the White House, referencing the department he currently leads.
“Was it not stronger after he passed away?” he added, according to the Washington Post.
The billionaire entrepreneur made the remarks as he joined reporters to mark President Donald Trump’s 100th day in office. Musk’s official term as a special government employee overseeing DOGE is set to end on May 30, but he said he plans to remain involved in an advisory capacity.
“I’m willing to contribute, on average, one to two days a week,” Musk said. “That probably means coming to DC every other week for three days or so — as long as the president wants me to.”
He added that his involvement going forward would be “at the discretion of the president.”
While he prepares to scale back his role, Musk emphasized that the cost-cutting department will continue its work. “Everybody’s not leaving,” he said. “Some will stay on, some will not. So, it’s up to them. This is basically a volunteer organization.”
Musk described DOGE as more than just a federal initiative: “DOGE is kind of a way of life… we make converts all the time.”
The department, founded to reduce federal spending and streamline operations, currently employs about 100 people. Despite his evolving role, Musk expressed confidence that its mission will endure.
