Argentinian President Javier Milei gave Trump adviser Elon Musk a chainsaw backstage at CPAC in Washington, D.C., on Thursday.
During his 2023 campaign, Milei held up a chainsaw during a political rally as he promised to cut government waste and address the country’s inflation crisis. Musk, who has been preaching a similar message in the U.S., has been advising President Donald Trump on areas to drastically cut government spending.
Milei posted a video on X of Musk receiving his gift, writing, “Llegó la motosierra a DOGE…!!! The Chainsaw has arrived at DOGE…!!!” Musk then posed with Milei while holding the chainsaw.
The chainsaw was emblazoned with the phrase, “VIVA LA LIBERTAD CARAJO,” which translates to “LONG LIVE FREEDOM, DAMN IT!” — Milei’s campaign slogan.
Llegó la motosierra a DOGE…!!!
The Chainsaw has arrived at DOGE…!!!VIVA LA LIBERTAD CARAJO
Cc: @elonmusk pic.twitter.com/jr7vwwGFKU— Javier Milei (@JMilei) February 20, 2025
Musk later appeared on stage at CPAC wearing sunglasses and a black Make America Great Again hat. Shortly after he walked out on the stage, Musk was followed by Milei carrying the chainsaw.
“This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy!” Musk said, holding the power tool up in the air.
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Musk has been tasked by President Trump, along with the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to look into multiple government agencies and suggest major cuts or even complete agency overhauls. The White House said earlier this week that Musk “is not the U.S. DOGE Service Administrator,” but “is a Senior Advisor to the President.” Musk, however, often touts DOGE’s work.
During a Q&A at CPAC, Musk said, “DOGE started out as a meme, think about it,” referring to the Shiba Inu dog meme that became popular over a decade ago. “Now it’s real. Isn’t that crazy?”
“We’re trying to get good things done, but also have a good time doing it,” Musk said. “And have, like, a sense of humor.”
On Wednesday, President Trump said that DOGE has “already” saved over $55 billion, adding, “We’re just getting started.”
