WASHINGTON (AP) — Elon Musk, preparing to step back from his work leading the Department of Government Efficiency, had a request of the reporters gathered at the White House to interview him: Before he would answer any questions, he wanted someone to tell him a joke.

While admitting that DOGE could have been more successful, Musk said he will keep his "tiny" office on the second floor of the West Wing.

DOGE was set up to terminate on July 4, 2026. But Musk now says his controversial group could help oversee the slashing of federal spending through the end of 2028. "I think so," Musk said of DOGE being extended.