New Delhi, May 1 -- Elon Musk compared himself to Buddha as he sat down at the White House with reporters and answered what will happen to DOGE if he steps down.

"Is Buddha needed for Buddhism," the Donald Trump aide said when asked about who will become the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in his absence, stressing that federal cost-cutting efforts would continue as usual no matter what.

"Was it not stronger after he passed away," the Washington Post quoted him as saying.

"DOGE is a way of life," he said. "Like Buddhism."

Will Elon Musk retain the title of senior adviser to the president, he was asked.

"I guess," he answered as he sat with reporters on Trump's 100 days at office.

Will DOGE wrap up its work b...