Elon Musk's leadership at the Department of Government Efficiency has come to an end, marking a significant milestone for the Trump administration.

Musk concluded his time as head of the Department of Government Efficiency with initiatives that reportedly saved taxpayers $170 billion, as Fox News reports.

Musk, who began leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in January, was acknowledged by President Donald Trump through a newly released video on Friday.

The video celebrated Musk's efforts to improve efficiency in governmental operations during his tenure.

Video highlights Musk contributions

Included in the video was Musk's public declaration support for Trump, which he voiced in July 2024. This endorsement is noted as part of the wider narrative supporting Musk's impactful role in government efficiency.

Musk's initiatives brought about substantial financial savings for the American public. Reports indicate that these measures have saved taxpayers around $170 billion.

The work carried out by Musk and his team in the DOGE included canceling about 523,000 active government credit cards and accounts. Additionally, significant progress was made in cleaning up records at the Social Security Administration.

Trump presents Musk with symbolic tribute

To honor Musk's achievements, President Trump hosted a joint news conference on Friday and awarded Musk a symbolic "key to the White House." During this event, Trump praised Musk for effecting major changes within Washington's long-standing practices.

"Elon’s delivered a colossal change in the old ways," Trump stated. He emphasized that Musk’s service to the nation is unparalleled in modern history.

Adding to the accolades, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed appreciation for Musk's "selfless, patriotic service" and commended both Musk and the DOGE for highlighting significant issues in government expenditure.

Concerns for DOGE's future

Despite Musk's departure, concerns surfaced regarding the future of DOGE. Assurances from the Trump administration indicate that the department will maintain its operations.

Musk's own view of the department reflects a philosophical angle, comparing the DOGE to Buddhism.

"DOGE is a way of life," Musk noted in a post, likening its leadership structure to that of Buddhism itself.

Although Musk is stepping down from his governmental role, President Trump suggested his influence persists.

"Even though it was Musk's last day, it wasn't really, because he will always be with us," Trump mentioned.

Musk's next chapter awaited

Musk intends to redirect his focus toward his work at Tesla and SpaceX. His transition will involve a change from accommodations in the Lincoln Bedroom to a more straightforward setting suitable for technological innovation.

The joint news conference signaled the end of a significant era in which Musk's approach to governmental efficiency had a resounding impact. Continued operations of the DOGE without his direct leadership will be closely observed.

With Musk's departure, the legacy of his work continues to resonate within the Trump administration. The accomplishments he helped to steer forward are likely to influence the direction of government efficiency efforts for years to come.