Elon Musk’s departure from Washington may signal an end to his DOGE Service, but it leaves behind significant damage and lowered expectations for the US government. The initiative, which aimed to streamline bureaucracy, has caused disruptions, shut down agencies, and canceled aid to vulnerable populations abroad. Despite some cost savings, the project is far from finished.
Trump’s presidency has been marked by grandiose rhetoric and promised quick fixes to intractable problems. However, his efforts to balance the federal budget have been unsuccessful, and his spending and tax cut package would add trillions of dollars to the national debt. The administration’s tariffs policy remains murky, with the court ruling that Trump exceeded his authority.
The government’s deportation initiative continues to face legal roadblocks and public scrutiny due to concerns over due process rights and callous treatment of high-profile cases. On Ukraine, Trump has failed to produce a ceasefire or negotiations, instead bullying Ukraine while demanding little from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
As Musk returns to repairing his private businesses, the record shows he fell short of even his revised savings goal for DOGE. The administration’s efforts have been criticized as reckless and insensitive, with disruption prized over clear successes. Trump’s defenders argue he has moved boldly, but others see him as a president who promises much and delivers little.
With Musk gone, it remains to be seen whether the DOGE Service will continue to produce significant savings or if the country will return to business as usual. One thing is certain: Trump’s presidency will be remembered for its failed promises and disastrous legacy.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/06/01/trump-musk-doge-drama-early-months