Elon Musk’s new government department has been thrown into turmoil amid reports his partner is considering quitting.

Vivek Ramaswamy could ditch plans to work with the department of government efficiency (Doge) in order to focus on his bid to become Ohio governor, a source close to the matter told Politico.

Mr Ramaswamy told members of the transition team about his plans to run for governor following the election, according to the outlet, and he is said to be planning to formally announce his candidacy by the end of January 2024.

The move could upend Doge, which plans to cut government spending by up to $2 trillion by July 4, 2026, as Mr Ramaswamy’s time would probably be occupied with his gubernatorial race.

Some in Donald Trump’s orbit have suggested Mr Ramswamy’s exit could provide a clear path for Mr Musk to carry out his own work uninterrupted.

“Elon basically runs the show,” an informal adviser to the president-elect told Politico. “Time is their biggest enemy. We’ll see.”

Mr Ramaswamy’s decision was allegedly brought forward this week after Mike DeWine, the Ohio governor, passed over him to replace JD Vance in the Senate, instead opting for Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted.