In his statement, Trump expressed confidence in Musk and Ramaswamy's capability to transform government operations. He noted that while the two leaders would not hold formal positions within the government, they would provide strategic guidance from the private sector. Their role will involve collaboration with the White House and the Office of Management & Budget to spearhead large-scale reforms and introduce an entrepreneurial approach to government management.

Musk, known for his outspoken views on innovation and efficiency, remarked that their work would "send shockwaves through the system" and challenge those contributing to governmental inefficiency. Trump set an ambitious timeline, expecting their reform efforts to conclude by July 4, 2026, coinciding with America's 250th Independence Day, which he called "the perfect gift to America."

The Trump campaign likened the department's mission to the "Manhattan Project" of modern times, alluding to the historic World War II project that developed the atomic bomb. The new department's acronym, DOGE, adds a playful twist, referencing the popular dog meme and Dogecoin—a cryptocurrency promoted by Musk as a lighthearted endeavor that gained significant popularity.

Both Musk and Ramaswamy come with notable ties to Trump: Musk played a significant role in Trump’s reelection campaign, while Ramaswamy, a former competitor in the Republican primary, endorsed Trump after withdrawing from the race. Due to their external advisory roles, they would not be bound by federal requirements for asset disclosure and divestiture, sidestepping the usual ethical constraints on federal employees.