In an unexpected announcement, President Donald Trump revealed on Thursday that the innovative entrepreneur Elon Musk might be stepping down from his role within the Trump administration in the coming months. This marks the most definitive indication yet that Musk’s influential presence in the government might soon come to an end.
During a conversation with media representatives aboard Air Force One, the President lauded Musk’s contributions, calling him “fantastic.” Nevertheless, Trump acknowledged Musk’s myriad responsibilities, noting that he manages several companies. “I’d like him to stay as long as possible,” Trump stated. “However, there will come a time when he will need to depart.”
As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has been pivotal in efforts to streamline and restructure federal operations. According to Trump, the initiatives started under Musk’s guidance will persist across different government agencies.
This announcement follows a series of signals suggesting Musk’s tenure might be nearing its conclusion. Additionally, Musk encountered a setback in Wisconsin earlier this week, where his preferred candidate for the state’s Supreme Court was defeated despite Musk investing over $21 million and making campaign appearances in support.
Challenges also loom at Tesla, Musk’s electric vehicle company, which experienced a 13% sales drop in the year’s initial quarter. Meanwhile, the White House has not delineated a specific timeline for winding down DOGE, and the initiative was never intended as a permanent entity in Washington. Initial plans set July 4, 2026, as DOGE’s operational end, yet indications suggest it may conclude sooner.
Currently, DOGE staff are being reassigned to various federal departments tasked with leading cost-cutting measures. Layoffs across the government are being implemented to achieve the objectives envisioned by Musk and Trump. Last week, Trump expressed confidence, stating, “In the next two or three months, we will be content with those diligently serving and eager to be part of the administration.”
While the conclusion of DOGE does not signal an end to Trump’s initiatives to restruct Washington, the focus appears to be shifting away from Musk’s high-profile role. Initially established as an independent advisory committee, DOGE functioned under the joint leadership of Musk and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who has since exited to pursue a gubernatorial bid in Ohio.
Musk occupies his role as a special government employee, which limits his service to 130 days within a year. In an interview with Bret Baier of Fox News, Musk stated, “I anticipate achieving significant deficit reduction within that period.” However, current DOGE calculations suggest the target remains elusive, with some critics questioning their validity.
Musk has not announced a formal departure date, and current metrics on his tenure’s duration remain unclear. As of May 30, it will mark 130 days since the inauguration of President Trump.
In recent Oval Office remarks, Trump praised Musk’s capabilities and expressed a desire to retain him, saying, “He’s incredibly talented.” Despite Trump’s history of turbulent separations with advisors, an amicable parting with Musk appears to be in the cards.
“I hope Elon remains for as long as possible,” Trump reiterated. “He’s not only performing admirably but is driven by patriotism in his efforts.”
Once Musk exits, Trump plans for Senate-confirmed agency leaders to assume comprehensive control, yet asserts that “DOGE will stay active.” This stands in slight contrast to Trump’s earlier remarks suggesting a collaboration between Cabinet members and DOGE personnel could persist within their agencies.
Ultimately, Trump conceded, “But at some stage, it will conclude.” In Wisconsin, Musk’s candidate underperformed Trump’s, a dynamic Democrats exploited to their advantage.
Candidate Susan Crawford defeated Musk’s preferred contender, Brad Schimel, ensuring a liberal tilt on the state Supreme Court. Reflecting on the campaign in its waning moments, Musk termed it “instrumental for civilization’s future,” later conceding, “Acknowledging losses offers room for strategic advantages,” in a message posted on social media.