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Tue Jan 21 16:54:31 UTC 2025: ## Biotech Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy Out of Trump’s “Doge” Advisory Group
**Washington, D.C. –** Indian-origin biotech entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has abruptly left President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), a controversial advisory group aimed at streamlining the federal government. Ramaswamy confirmed his departure on X (formerly Twitter), stating he would soon announce his future plans in Ohio, widely speculated to be a gubernatorial bid.
Ramaswamy’s exit, just 69 days after Doge’s announcement, follows reports of a rift with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the group’s sole remaining leader. Multiple sources claim Musk, a close Trump confidant, orchestrated Ramaswamy’s removal, citing dissatisfaction with his public statements, particularly a December 26th post criticizing American culture and its impact on tech hiring practices. This tweet, sources say, exacerbated existing concerns about Ramaswamy’s commitment to Doge, with some suggesting he hadn’t actively participated since early December.
Reports also indicate friction between Ramaswamy and Doge staff, and accusations that he shied away from “heavy lifting.” A spokesperson for Doge, Anna Kelly, attributed the departure to Ramaswamy’s upcoming political ambitions, stating that his role within the advisory group was incompatible with seeking elected office.
Doge itself has faced immediate legal challenges. Three lawsuits filed on Inauguration Day allege the group violates federal transparency laws regarding disclosure, hiring practices, and its lack of federal employee representation despite its intention to advise on federal employment and workforce reduction. Despite its ambitious goals of cutting federal spending and bureaucracy, Doge operates outside the government, limiting its official power. The group’s ultimate effectiveness remains uncertain.