Elon Musk has officially concluded his 130-day tenure as a special government employee leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). However, statements from President Donald Trump suggest that Musk’s involvement with the administration may continue in an unofficial capacity.  
During a press conference marking Musk’s departure, President Trump remarked, “Elon’s not really leaving. He’s gonna be back and forth,” implying that Musk will maintain an advisory role despite the end of his formal appointment. 
Musk’s tenure at DOGE was marked by ambitious goals to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion, later adjusted to $1 trillion. The actual savings achieved were approximately $175 billion, according to DOGE’s own estimates. These measures included significant budget cuts and the elimination of numerous federal positions, leading to widespread criticism and legal challenges.  
Critics have accused Musk of using his government role to benefit his private enterprises, citing substantial contracts awarded to his companies during his tenure. Additionally, his aggressive cost-cutting strategies have been linked to disruptions in various federal agencies, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). 
Despite stepping down from his official position, Musk’s influence within the administration appears to persist. His close relationship with President Trump and significant political contributions suggest that he will continue to play a role in shaping policy decisions.  
As Musk transitions back to focusing on his private ventures, the long-term impact of his government service remains a subject of debate. While some view his efforts as a bold attempt to streamline federal operations, others criticize the approach as disruptive and self-serving. The future of DOGE and Musk’s continued involvement in government affairs will likely unfold in the coming months.