Musk's DOGE Claims $160 Billion Savings, Spending Rises

Elon Musk, through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), pledged to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget, but actual savings have fallen far short, with DOGE now claiming $150–160 billion in savings instead. Despite high-profile cuts to federal agencies, contracts, and jobs, multiple analyses show that government spending has actually increased compared to previous years, with one report finding a $171 billion rise in spending since Trump returned to office. Critics argue that the savings touted by DOGE are exaggerated and do not account for the significant costs of severance payments, legal challenges, and lost revenue from reduced IRS staffing, which could ultimately outweigh any savings. Some experts warn that the disruptions have led to higher overall waste and could result in hundreds of billions in lost federal revenue due to decreased tax enforcement. Additionally, many targeted cuts are in areas that make up a small portion of the federal budget, limiting the potential for major reductions. Musk has since stepped back from his government role, and skepticism remains high about the feasibility and accuracy of his savings claims.