Elon Musk is exploring the use of blockchain technology at the Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E), Bloomberg reported Saturday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Musk, now the sole leader of the initiative following Vivek Ramaswamy’s departure, has reportedly discussed with close allies the possibility of using blockchain’s distributed ledger technology to improve government efficiency and reduce spending.
Potential applications under consideration include tracking federal expenditures more effectively, strengthening data security measures, streamlining payment systems, and even optimizing the management of government buildings. Sources indicate that representatives from D.O.G.E have evaluated the technical merits of several public blockchain platforms for these applications, engaging in discussions about how blockchain could be implemented across various government processes.
The discussions align with President Donald Trump’s crypto-friendly policies. Trump recently signed an executive order establishing a digital assets working group comprising key administration officials.
DOGE, created by Trump’s January 20 executive order, is tasked with modernizing federal technology and software to enhance government efficiency and productivity.
Musk assembled approximately 100 volunteers before Trump’s inauguration to write code for his projects, according to one person familiar with the matter. The blockchain initiative would be among several technological tools that Musk’s team might employ to reduce costs and eliminate wasteful spending, fraud, and abuse.
Some major institutions have already adopted public blockchains. BlackRock has issued a money-market fund on multiple crypto ledgers. If implemented, DOGE’s blockchain initiative would likely be the largest government blockchain project in US history.
