Can Musk and DOGE Really Cut the Pentagon and Department of Education? Here’s What to Expect!

DOGE: What Will Musk Actually Do?

DOGE's Head: Is Elon Musk a Secretary or Advisor?

Is Elon Musk About to Dismantle the U.S. Education and Military Systems

Elon Musk’s tenure as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has already shaken up Washington, with his aggressive efforts to cut federal spending and streamline bureaucracy.

As Trump continues to prioritize reducing government size and inefficiencies, Musk has been given the green light to audit and restructure two of the nation’s largest institutions. But what exactly does this mean for the future of education and national defense? Here’s a deep dive into Musk’s next DOGE targets and the potential consequences.

Musk and DOGE: A Disruptive Force in Government

In early 2025, President Trump appointed Elon Musk to lead DOGE, an unprecedented move that signaled a dramatic shift toward applying private-sector efficiency to federal governance. Musk’s mandate was clear: reduce waste, streamline operations, and modernize outdated systems. His first major action was dismantling USAID, claiming it was plagued by inefficiencies and unnecessary expenditures.

His methods—offering federal employees buyouts, slashing budgets, and attempting to shut down entire agencies—have been met with mixed reactions. Supporters hail his reforms as long-overdue fiscal responsibility, while critics argue that Musk is dismantling essential government services with little oversight.

Now, with the USAID battle in full swing, Musk’s focus has shifted to two agencies that represent a significant portion of federal spending and government influence: the Department of Education and the Department of Defense.

Dogecoin surges 10% as Elon Musk names proposed government department DOGE

The Education Department: A Longtime Conservative Target

The Department of Education (DoE) has long been a controversial institution, particularly among conservatives who advocate for states’ rights and school choice. Since its establishment as a Cabinet-level department in 1979, many Republican lawmakers have pushed for reducing its influence or abolishing it entirely. Now, Musk and DOGE are making a serious effort to reassess its structure and functions.

What Changes Could Be Coming?

1. Downsizing or Abolishing the Department

   • The Trump administration has floated the idea of shifting federal education responsibilities to the states.

   • DOGE is currently reviewing spending and effectiveness, with sources indicating Musk could push to eliminate redundant programs.

2. A Push for Tech-Driven Education

   • Musk has hinted at utilizing AI-driven personalized learning to replace outdated educational models.

   • A proposed public-private partnership could see more reliance on tech firms to drive education innovation.

3. School Choice and Privatization

   • Charter schools and voucher programs may receive increased funding at the expense of federal oversight.

   • Musk’s libertarian-leaning views suggest he could advocate for decentralization of education.

4. Eliminating Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

   • Recent reports suggest DOGE is scrutinizing income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness initiatives.

   • Musk could push for reforms that encourage market-based solutions instead of federal funding for student debt relief.

While these proposed reforms would align with conservative priorities, they are certain to face opposition from teachers' unions, advocacy groups, and Democrats in Congress.

The Pentagon: A More Difficult Battle

Unlike the Department of Education, cutting military spending is a riskier and more contentious challenge. The Department of Defense (DoD) accounts for roughly 13% of the federal budget ($872 billion), and any major cuts could trigger resistance from defense contractors, military leaders, and even some Republicans in Congress.

Musk’s Plan for the Pentagon

1. Cutting “Wasteful” Defense Spending

   • Musk has openly criticized excessive defense contracts and inefficient procurement processes.

   • DOGE is conducting an audit of military expenditures to identify waste and redundancies.

   • Trump hinted that cuts may not be as drastic as with USAID but still expects savings to be found.

2. Leveraging SpaceX and AI for Military Efficiency

   • Musk could advocate for greater reliance on private companies like SpaceX for defense technology.

   • AI-driven automation in logistics and surveillance may reduce the need for traditional troop deployments.

3. Potential Base Closures and Personnel Reductions

   • A push to close outdated military bases and consolidate operations could be on the table.

   • DOGE might examine troop numbers and consider civilian job reductions in the military bureaucracy.

4. Rethinking U.S. Military Presence Abroad

   • A review of U.S. military bases and deployments overseas could lead to troop reductions.

   • The administration may prioritize diplomatic solutions over military interventions.

While fiscal conservatives may support a more efficient military budget, many in Washington—particularly defense hawks—are likely to push back against any major cuts to national security spending.

Elon Musk has been appointed as the head of DOGE

Public and Political Reactions

Supporters Say:

• Musk’s efforts will eliminate inefficiencies and cut unnecessary government spending.

• A leaner federal government is better for taxpayers.

• Emphasis on technology and private-sector innovation could revolutionize outdated government systems.

Critics Argue:

• Dismantling the Department of Education could harm students, teachers, and low-income communities.

• Cutting military spending may weaken national security.

• Musk’s unchecked power within the administration raises concerns about democratic accountability.

Several lawsuits have already been filed against DOGE’s actions, with critics arguing that only Congress—not Musk or Trump—has the legal authority to shut down federal agencies.

What’s Next?

Musk and DOGE’s aggressive approach to government reform is far from over. In the coming months, expect to see:

• Further announcements on the future of the Department of Education.

• Detailed budget reviews at the Pentagon.

• Political battles over Musk’s authority and Trump’s government efficiency agenda.

As Musk continues his bold experiment in governmental restructuring, one thing is certain: the landscape of federal governance is shifting dramatically. Whether these changes lead to greater efficiency or chaos remains to be seen, but for now, Washington is bracing for Musk’s next moves.

Final Thought

Elon Musk’s DOGE is redefining the role of federal agencies—but at what cost? His push to dismantle bureaucracy, reduce spending, and inject private-sector efficiency has already had profound effects. As he turns his focus to the Education Department and the Pentagon, the stakes have never been higher.

FAQs

1. What is the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)?

   • DOGE is a newly created government agency led by Elon Musk, tasked with auditing and restructuring federal agencies to reduce inefficiencies.

2. Why is the Department of Education a target for DOGE?

   • The department has long been criticized by conservatives for excessive federal involvement in education, and Musk is reviewing its role and effectiveness.

3. What kind of military spending cuts is Musk considering?

   • Potential cuts include eliminating redundant programs, streamlining procurement, and reducing troop deployments overseas.

4. Will Congress approve these changes?

   • Many of these changes will likely face legal and political challenges, as only Congress has the authority to dismantle federal agencies.

5. How do these changes impact everyday Americans?

   • Potential effects include shifts in education policy, changes in military spending, and overall reductions in federal government size.

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