The Inspiration
Former President Donald Trump proposed creating a "government efficiency commission" led by Elon Musk if re-elected. This commission would audit federal government spending and recommend reforms.
The idea gained attention when Musk posted an AI-generated image of himself at a "Department of Government Efficiency" podium, with the initials spelling "DOGE" - referencing the popular Shiba Inu meme and cryptocurrency.
Timeline of Events
September 7, 2024
Musk tweets "Department of Government Efficiency" with an AI-generated picture of himself wearing a D.O.G.E. chain.
September 5, 2024
Trump announces he would enlist Elon Musk to run a "government efficiency commission" if he wins a second term as US president.
Musk tweets "The Department of Government Efficiency will be epic".
August 19, 2024
Musk tweets "I am willing to serve" with an AI-generated picture of himself speaking at a D.O.G.E. podium.
August 12, 2024
Musk tweets "A tremendous amount of growth and opportunity would be created by deregulation and reduction of wasteful government spending".
August 2, 2024
During an interview on Lex Fridman's podcast, Musk said he'd talked with Trump about a government efficiency commission.