DOGE "Route Controversy": Vivek wants regulation, while Musk only cares about layoffs

The operation direction of the new U.S. government's "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) has undergone a significant shift, originally conceived by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, the DOGE project is now fully led by Musk.

According to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal on the 23rd, the DOGE project has been incorporated into the West Wing of the White House, where Musk has been working this week. Meanwhile, Vivek has left the DOGE project and plans to announce his candidacy for Governor of Ohio next week.

Musk's priorities are focused on cutting expenses, while Vivek hopes to drive reform by reducing regulations. Sources say that Vivek was originally responsible for the deregulation and reduction of bureaucracy aspects of DOGE, but as the project's focus shifted to cutting expenses, his involvement has gradually diminished.

The tension between Vivek and Musk was evident early in their collaboration, as he offended many Trump supporters with his public views on the H-1B visa. Industry insiders point out that "tension between CEOs is inevitable."

Are the rifts between the two deepening? The DOGE operation model sparks controversy

Previously, some of Ramaswamy's comments on issues like the H-1B visa on social media also sparked dissatisfaction among Trump supporters and aides. The Wall Street Journal cited a source stating:

“There will always be tension between two successful CEOs, and everyone sees that.”

The operation model of DOGE has also sparked controversy. The project was initially envisioned as an external government agency, possibly existing in the form of a think tank or nonprofit advocacy organization. Ramaswamy has consistently argued that to achieve its goals, it must operate outside of the government.

However, the Trump administration ultimately decided to incorporate DOGE into the executive branch, a decision that rapidly took shape over the past two weeks.

It is noteworthy that Musk and Vivek previously had a preliminary understanding of "equal cooperation," but as DOGE's functions began to formalize, their relationship started to fracture. According to The Wall Street Journal, a source stated:

“Elon supports this decision, while Vivek opposes it. This is inconsistent with the original mission and vision of DOGE as articulated by Trump two months ago.”

The operation of DOGE has already sparked legal challenges. Some advocacy organizations and unions have filed lawsuits regarding its operational transparency, accusing DOGE of failing to comply with the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as its meetings are conducted in secret and records are not open to the public.

Despite this, the DOGE project led by Musk is still advancing rapidly. An executive order requires federal agencies to establish DOGE teams, including team leaders, engineers, human resources experts, and lawyers. Musk stated that the salaries for these positions are zero, but specific details have yet to be clarified