Additional Coverage:
- Bill Gates says Elon Musk’s DOGE could be ‘valuable’ and that the federal deficit needed to be ‘brought down’ (newsbreak.com)
Local billionaire Bill Gates recently commented on the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a Wall Street Journal interview. He stated that reviewing government spending could be valuable, particularly given the need to reduce the federal deficit. Gates believes the deficit poses a significant financial threat if left unchecked.
He suggested that DOGE’s zero-based budgeting approach could yield positive results. When asked where he would target spending cuts, Gates acknowledged the need to examine all areas, including pensions, defense, and healthcare.
However, he also cautioned against cutting programs with long-term benefits, citing HIV medication as a prime example. He emphasized the US’s role in providing life-saving treatment to millions and warned of the devastating consequences of halting such programs.
Beyond his tech empire, Gates continues his philanthropic work through the Gates Foundation. While he didn’t publicly endorse Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, reports indicate a substantial private donation to a pro-Harris super PAC. Gates has stated that this election cycle held particular significance for him.
He also recently met with former President Trump, expressing admiration for Trump’s interest in global health matters.