Washington Reels As Elon Musk Steps Down
Elon Muskโs exit from his controversial government post has sent shockwaves through Washington. The Tesla CEO is stepping down as his 130-day appointment limit nears, officially ending his tenure as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While the White House claims the transition is routine, sources say rising political backlash and internal drama accelerated the timeline.
Muskโs aggressive downsizing of federal agencies made headlines and won him praise from fiscal conservatives. But it also stirred outrage, especially after Democrats flipped a Wisconsin judicial race into which Musk had poured millions. His presence, once seen as bold, quickly became a liability.
Tensions Grow Behind Closed Doors
Trumpโs administration had grown increasingly uneasy with Muskโs behavior. His tendency to act without warningโslashing budgets, commenting recklessly on policyโkept Cabinet officials in constant crisis mode. At a recent strategy session, Trump reportedly returned more authority to his traditional secretaries, signaling a quiet shift away from Muskโs influence.
Public opinion followed. Support for DOGE fell alongside Muskโs approval ratings. With Elon Muskโs exit, Republican leaders are hoping to restore order ahead of the midterm elections.
Tesla Takes A Hit Amid The Chaos
The timing couldnโt be worse for Tesla. The company just reported a 13% drop in sales, with some analysts blaming consumer backlash tied to Muskโs political activity. Brand sentiment has slipped, especially among younger, more progressive buyers.
Muskโs return to Tesla full-time has sparked mixed reactions. Some investors hope it signals a renewed focus on innovation. Others worry that the controversy surrounding Elon Muskโs exit may continue to follow himโand the brand.
Whatโs Ahead For Musk And Tesla?
Muskโs departure from government doesnโt mean heโs leaving politics. Sources say heโll continue advising the Trump administration informally. Meanwhile, heโll face pressure to stabilize Tesla, repair its public image, and reverse falling sales.
The stakes are high. Teslaโs stock, already volatile, could face more turbulence if Musk continues to stir public controversy. Yet with Elon Muskโs exit from official duties, thereโs at least a chance for Tesla to reset and refocus.
Whether Musk leans into quiet leadershipโor keeps fueling headlinesโremains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Elon Muskโs exit marks a turning point for both Tesla and the political machine he helped disrupt.
