Steve Davis Keeps Musk’s Influence Alive at DOGE Amid White House Tensions
- Why Is DOGE Stuck in a Political Crossfire?
- How Does Steve Davis Sustain Musk’s DOGE Influence?
- What’s Behind the Trump-Musk Budget Feud?
- Could DOGE 2.0 Reshape Federal Efficiency?
- FAQ: Unpacking the DOGE-Musk-Trump Drama
The political tug-of-war between the White House and Elon Musk’s loyalists has escalated, with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) caught in the crossfire. Musk’s departure from the agency hasn’t diminished his sway, thanks to his longtime associate Steve Davis, who maintains unofficial ties with DOGE staff. Meanwhile, TRUMP and Musk clash over fiscal policy, and rumors swirl about a potential "DOGE 2.0" reboot. This article dives into the power struggles, financial controversies, and the future of federal efficiency under fire.
Why Is DOGE Stuck in a Political Crossfire?
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), once a flagship initiative under Trump, has become a battleground for ideological and financial disputes. Tensions spiked after Elon Musk publicly criticized Trump’s $5 trillion tax-and-spend bill, prompting the former president to quip, “Maybe DOGE should eat Elon.” Internal DOGE meetings reportedly devolved into loyalty tests, with staff pressured to pick sides. WHITE House officials have since sidelined DOGE’s role, citing unmet economic promises—despite the agency’s claim of saving $190 billion in wasteful spending (a figure disputed by economists). Sources reveal Musk’s allies are drafting plans for a modernized “DOGE 2.0,” focusing on federal IT infrastructure rather than job cuts.
How Does Steve Davis Sustain Musk’s DOGE Influence?
Though Steve Davis left DOGE in May 2025, he remains a conduit for Musk’s agenda. Described as “close” to current employees, Davis communicates via Signal and phone calls, bypassing official channels. On June 10, Musk, Davis, and advisor Katie Miller (wife of Trump aide Stephen Miller) held a private meeting with DOGE staff, urging them to “stay the course.” Later in June, Davis pitched White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles on revamping public-facing government websites, like a National Parks portal. Critics argue Musk’s interest in DOGE stems from protecting his business interests—evidenced by SpaceX’s StarLink trials with the FAA and Tesla hires in federal agencies.
What’s Behind the Trump-Musk Budget Feud?
The rift widened when Musk mocked Trump’s fiscal policies on X: “What’s the point of DOGE if [Trump] will just raise debt by $5 trillion?” Trump retaliated on Truth Social, posting a meme of the “Doge” meme coin mascot devouring Musk. Behind the theatrics, policy differences are stark: Musk advocates for tech-driven efficiency, while Trump’s camp prioritizes traditional cost-cutting. The White House insists its reforms have curbed “waste and fraud,” but DOGE’s credibility hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, Musk’s hints about launching an “America Party” suggest the feud is far from over.
Could DOGE 2.0 Reshape Federal Efficiency?
Musk loyalists envision Doge 2.0 as a leaner, tech-savvy successor. Proposals include digitizing permit processes and adopting AI for budget audits—a stark contrast to Trump’s focus on staffing reductions. Skeptics, however, question whether Musk’s vision is feasible or merely a smokescreen for corporate gains. With Davis as the behind-the-scenes operator and Musk’s vocal advocacy, the battle for DOGE’s soul reflects broader debates about government’s role in innovation.
FAQ: Unpacking the DOGE-Musk-Trump Drama
What is DOGE’s original purpose?
DOGE was created under Trump to eliminate wasteful federal spending, but its $190 billion savings claim is contested.
How is Steve Davis connected to Musk?
Davis, Musk’s longtime associate, left DOGE in 2025 but still influences staff unofficially.
Why did Musk criticize Trump’s bill?
Musk opposes the $5 trillion debt increase, calling it antithetical to DOGE’s efficiency goals.
What is DOGE 2.0?
A rumored Musk-backed reboot focusing on modernizing federal IT systems, not job cuts.
Has DOGE benefited Musk’s companies?
Critics note hires from SpaceX/Tesla into agencies and FAA’s StarLink trials as potential conflicts.
