- Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is exploring blockchain technology to enhance transparency and reduce federal spending.
- DOGE officials are consulting blockchain networks to evaluate its use for data security, payment systems, and government infrastructure management.
Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is reportedly investigating blockchain technology to enhance transparency and cut federal spending in U.S. government operations. The initiative aligns with Musk’s overarching goal of reducing trillions from the federal budget and ensuring accountability through advanced technological solutions.
According to Bloomberg, DOGE is evaluating blockchain for applications such as data security, payment processing, and infrastructure management. The department’s staff has also engaged with representatives from public, permissionless blockchain networks to explore potential integration for government use.
The move reflects a growing interest in leveraging blockchain to promote government transparency, an idea that has previously surfaced in American politics. In April 2024, former presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposed putting the entire federal budget on a blockchain.
During a rally in Michigan, Kennedy emphasized the need for transparency and saying:
“Every American can look at every budget item in the entire budget, anytime they want, 24 hours a day. If somebody is spending $16,000 for a toilet seat, everybody will know about it.”
His proposal garnered support from advocates for fiscal accountability and sound money policies.
DOGE officially launched its website on January 21, featuring a logo inspired by the popular cryptocurrency Dogecoin. The announcement coincided with an 11% surge in Dogecoin’s price, reaching $0.38. The memecoin’s association with DOGE highlights the lighthearted branding Musk has infused into the department’s identity.
Notably, DOGE co-founder Vivek Ramaswamy announced his departure from the initiative on January 20, citing his intent to run for governor of Ohio. In an X (formerly Twitter) post, Ramaswamy expressed confidence in Musk’s ability to streamline government operations, signaling his shift toward political ambitions.
Editorial Note: This news article has been written with assistance from AI. Edited & fact-checked by Harshajit Sarmah.
