Updated Jan 20, 2025 - Business

Ramaswamy to leave DOGE to launch bid for Ohio governor

April Rubin

Vivek Ramaswamy talks with Susie Wiles — Businessman Vivek Ramaswamy (L) talks with incoming White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles (R) during President Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C. Photo: Shawn Thew/Pool via Getty Images

Vivek Ramaswamy will leave the Trump administration's new Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, to run for Ohio governor multiple outlets reported on Monday.

Why it matters: Ramaswamy's departure leaves Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been increasingly asserting authority within the GOP, at the helm of the project.

Ramaswamy plans to launch a gubernatorial bid in Ohio, the reports said. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine's second term will end in January 2027.
A spokesperson for the Trump administration did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.

Context: Ramaswamy rose to political prominence with his failed 2024 presidential bid.

In his business roles, he fought against environmental, social and governance and diversity, equity and inclusion.

Catch up quick: DOGE's mandate is to crack down on government waste and inefficiency.

In December, Ramaswamy told Axios' Mike Allen he was hopeful that firing federal workers would be good for them.
DOGE was targeted by court challenges just as Trump took office.

Between the lines: Ramaswamy on Monday posted a photo on X of himself and Musk with the caption "a new dawn."

Both attended Trump's inaugural events.

Go deeper: Musk's DOGE targeted by union lawsuit ahead of Trump's executive order

Editor's note: This story has been updated with details throughout.

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Ramaswamy to leave DOGE to launch bid for Ohio governor

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