How does Trump's approach to reducing government waste differ from traditional Republican methods?

Trump's approach differs by focusing on the underlying technological systems that enable government functionality rather than just policy changes. By enlisting Elon Musk, a systems expert, Trump is examining the actual machinery of government—the payment systems, employment systems, and distribution mechanisms that keep money flowing. Unlike previous Republican administrations whose non-technical appointees were easily blocked by bureaucracy, Musk's team has obtained root access to government systems, uncovering inefficiencies and fraud that were previously hidden. This technological transparency approach aims to fundamentally disrupt and rebuild government operations rather than simply modifying policies.