Elon Musk, the tech mogul known for his eccentric habits and disruptive leadership, is stepping back from his central role in DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency). In a recent press briefing, Musk revealed amusing anecdotes about his White House stays — including late-night caramel Haagen-Dazs ice cream runs — and opened up about the future of DOGE and his own regrets.
Elon Musk Denies Requesting Lincoln Bedroom Stays
Contrary to speculation, Elon Musk clarified he never asked to stay in the Lincoln Bedroom. Instead, he claims former President Donald Trump regularly offered the suite during late-night conversations aboard Air Force One.
“He’ll call, like late at night, and say, ‘Oh, by the way, make sure you get some ice cream from the kitchen,’” Musk recalled with a smile.
A Farewell to Full-Time DOGE Leadership
Musk’s surprise appearance in Washington came as he confirmed he would scale back from his role as DOGE’s leader. Having aggressively cut government spending and programs, Musk says it’s time to refocus on his Tesla commitments.
“We’re getting more of a rhythm,” Musk said. “So now I can return to primarily running my companies – which they need me.”
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‘DOGE Is a Way of Life,’ Says Musk
DOGE, launched during Trump’s second term, was Musk’s attempt to slash waste in the U.S. federal system. Despite stepping back, Musk emphasized the ideology of DOGE is here to stay.
“Is Buddha needed for Buddhism?” he joked. “DOGE is a way of life.”
Musk noted that Steve Davis, a longtime associate, will assume a larger role within DOGE operations.
A Polarizing Figure in Politics and Business
Recent polls suggest Musk’s association with the Trump administration has become politically divisive. Tensions reportedly flared between Musk and high-ranking officials like Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent.
Still, Musk’s goal remains the same: to save $1 trillion in federal expenses by 2026. So far, DOGE has claimed $160 billion in savings.
“It’s possible,” Musk said, “but it’s a long, painful road.”
White House Moments: Gaming, Ice Cream, and Windowless Offices
Musk described his tiny White House office as “a view of nothing,” adding it houses the largest monitor in the building. During breaks, he sometimes plays Diablo or Path of Exile.
“Which is fine,” he joked, “makes it harder to shoot me.”
He also downplayed his lack of formal title: “They don’t put anything on my card. It just says my name.”
Elon Musk DOGE Downsizing and Regrets
Musk admitted DOGE’s mass downsizing efforts — including voluntary buyouts dubbed “fork in the road” — have been controversial. Only 1% of workers have been fired so far, with tens of thousands opting out voluntarily.
DOGE’s mandate is set to expire in July 2026, aligning with America’s 250th birthday.
As for regrets? Musk called them “better decisions that could have been made with hindsight.”
“In the grand scheme, I think we’ve been effective,” he said. “Not as effective as I’d like, but we’ve made progress.”
Though no longer DOGE’s full-time leader, Elon Musk’s influence remains. His blend of humor, ambition, and political controversy continues to shape both Washington and Wall Street. Whether DOGE can meet its $1 trillion savings target without him at the helm remains to be seen.