Ramaswamy Exits DOGE Amid Staff Friction; Musk Now Sole Leader as He Eyes Ohio Governor Bid

Jan 20, 2025, 07:15 AM

Vivek Ramaswamy, the entrepreneur selected by President-elect Donald Trump to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Elon Musk, is expected to step away from the task force as he prepares to launch a campaign for Ohio governor. Sources close to the matter indicate that Ramaswamy's departure is due to friction with rank and file DOGE staff over his lack of participation, and he has been subtly encouraged to exit. A person close to Trump stated that "Vivek has worn out his welcome." According to CBS News, individuals close to Musk have privately undercut Ramaswamy for weeks, frustrated with his limited involvement in the task force's efforts. Ramaswamy's exit leaves Musk as the sole leader of DOGE, which has not yet been formally established. Ramaswamy plans to formally announce his gubernatorial bid by the end of January. His departure from DOGE signals a shift in focus toward his political ambitions in Ohio.