Former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who had been selected to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, is stepping down from his role.
This development comes amid speculation about Ramaswamy’s plans to run for governor of Ohio, sources told CBS News.
Tensions have reportedly grown between Ramaswamy and the incoming DOGE team. Sources close to Musk have expressed dissatisfaction with Ramaswamy’s contributions, with complaints that the biotech millionaire was not meeting expectations. Additionally, friction has reportedly developed between Ramaswamy and DOGE staff members.
“Vivek has worn out his welcome,” a person close to President-elect Donald Trump told CBS News, signaling a breakdown in trust and cooperation within the task force.
Ramaswamy recently engaged in discussions with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine about filling the Senate seat vacated by Vice President-elect JD Vance.
However, on Friday, DeWine announced his decision to appoint Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted to the position, ending speculation about Ramaswamy’s chances for the role.
Ramaswamy was previously a contender for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, a campaign that bolstered his national profile. During the transition period, he was seen at Mar-a-Lago, brainstorming with Musk at the estate’s bar.
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