Tue Jan 28 01:50:00 UTC 2025: **Pharma Billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy Resigns from Elon Musk’s Government Efficiency Role Amidst Controversy**
NEW YORK – Vivek Ramaswamy, the co-head of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and prominent pharma billionaire, has resigned from his position. The resignation follows a controversial social media post criticizing American culture and reportedly clashing with both President Donald Trump and Musk himself.
In a December post on X (formerly Twitter), Ramaswamy argued that American culture prioritizes mediocrity over excellence, sparking a backlash. Sources close to President Trump, as reported by the New York Times, revealed that the President was privately unhappy with the post and its potential to draw him into a contentious debate. The post also drew criticism from prominent Trump allies, including Steve Bannon.
Furthermore, Politico reported that Musk had been privately critical of Ramaswamy and wanted him removed from his DOGE role. While neither Musk nor Ramaswamy responded to requests for comment, the tensions appear to have culminated in Ramaswamy’s departure.
Ramaswamy’s resignation comes amid a broader debate among conservatives regarding H-1B visas, with some opposing the program while others, including Musk and Trump, support it. Ramaswamy’s stance on this issue is unclear, though his December post implicitly criticized aspects of the existing system.
Ramaswamy, in a statement on X, confirmed his resignation, stating it was an honor to help create DOGE and expressing confidence in Musk’s team. He hinted at future plans in Ohio, suggesting a potential run for governor. This follows Trump’s reported suggestion that Ramaswamy would be suitable for the Ohio Senate seat, a position ultimately filled by Lt. Gov. Jon Husted.