While Musk’s DOGE drew headlines, Trump’s broader deregulatory push is led by OMB and others also charged with cutting spending and slashing regulation.

Rather than set government straight, Elon Musk is leaving Washington with the federal budget all cattywampus. Deficit spending is increasing, not waning, and there is a growing school of thought that his “efficiency” effort could end up costing the government as much as or more than it saved.

Despite Musk’s stated departure from DOGE (and attempts to talk up his focus on his businesses), sources tell Wired that DOGE-related efforts across federal agencies are “escalating.” President Trump confirmed on Friday that Musk’s “really not leaving,

DOGE officials pressured the US Navy to cancel a $170 million cloud migration contract, which could jeopardize sailors' pay and promotions.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency cut $5 million in software waste, aiming for $1 trillion in savings through audits and budget reductions.

President Trump considered $5,000 stimulus checks funded by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) savings. DOGE savings are disputed, with claims ranging from $150 billion to $175 billion, and some cuts potentially leading to increased costs.

Elon Musk is leaving the Trump administration, and DOGE cuts will soon be in the hands of GOP lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

Sahil Lavingia, who says he was fired from DOGE after speaking out about his experiences there, told WIRED about how he communicated with the group, who appears to be in charge, and what might be coming next.