Tech billionaire Elon Musk joined the chainsaw-wielding conservative political action conference (CPAC) stage on Thursday, highlighting efforts to cut federal budgets and labor through President Trump's so-called government efficiency panel.
The “American great” mask, wearing a “major American” hat, sunglasses, chain and black clothing, walked on stage and was soon joined by Argentine President Javier Miley.
As Musk kept the chainsaw, he cried out, “This is a bureaucratic chainsaw.”
Miley, who has become famous in Argentina for her vow to shake the country's government and economy, often wields a chainsaw with political events.
Mylay is reportedly the inspiration behind Doge, who set up shops in various federal agencies in what the Trump administration frames as an effort to eliminate government waste, fraud and abuse.
Musk is facing increasing criticism of Doge's efforts, particularly large layoffs of federal workers, closures of an entire independent agency, and efforts that have led to access to confidential information. Several lawsuits have been filed challenging layoffs and access to federal databases.
Earlier this week, Doge's website claimed it had discovered $55 billion in savings.
The US International Development Agency lists DOGE as the best savings accounting for around $6.5 billion in savings, with DOGE discovering total contract savings and contract savings as a percentage of the federal government. Musk and his Doge team soon worked to demolish agents who provide food to people in need around the world.
The Trump administration also offered acquisitions to federal workers, with 75,000 people choosing to take it so far.
