In a unique encounter at the White House, Elon Musk requested the reporters gathering for an interview to start with a joke. Musk, who has played a prominent role in federal government efficiency, made this request as he prepared to take a step back from his governmental duties.
The presence of Musk, one of the wealthiest individuals globally, at the center of U.S. government affairs highlights the unusual dynamics of his involvement. Recently, his actions in reducing the government workforce have sparked significant reactions, including protests related to his electric vehicle firm, Tesla.
Reflecting on his role and DOGE’s involvement, Musk humorously pondered the absurdity of DOGE’s inclusion in the government. “Isn’t it funny that DOGE, once a meme coin, is part of the government?” he mused with laughter. “How did it even come to this?”
Musk, dressed in black but without the two hats he wore in the morning Cabinet meeting, justified the efforts of DOGE while clarifying his intention to focus more on his business ventures. However, his explanations regarding DOGE’s activities and its future remained vague, particularly given the intense criticism he has faced.
“Being continuously attacked is unpleasant,” Musk admitted, hinting at the unsettling incidents involving Tesla cars. “It’s not enjoyable to see cars being destroyed,” he noted.
Despite the controversies, Musk expressed satisfaction with the progress made, although acknowledging it’s not at the level he hoped. However, challenges and lawsuits have emerged, particularly as DOGE sought access to sensitive government data, including Social Security information, leading to legal resistance.
Democratic lawmakers recently launched an online tool to track federal funding that DOGE has halted, escalating tensions between legislative and executive powers. Musk refrained from mentioning what changes he might consider but admitted that the initiative hasn’t achieved its initial savings objectives yet.
Originally, DOGE aimed for a $1 trillion saving target; to date, Musk estimates cuts of $160 billion. Achieving the initial goal appears increasingly difficult, and Musk suggested it relies on how much discomfort the government branches are willing to withstand. “It’s doable, but it would come with a lot of grievances,” he remarked.
Musk withheld specific objections but mentioned having a good rapport with President Trump’s Cabinet. He acknowledged occasional disagreements, notably with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Regarding concerns over accessing personal data, Musk downplayed fears of creating a “surveillance state,” joking that such a state already exists. He asserted the necessity for this access to combat fraud effectively. “It’s crucial to identify and reconcile improper payments,” he said.
Musk mentioned DOGE’s cooperation with the Justice Department on fraud cases, citing the indictment of an Iraqi individual in New York for election fraud as a recent example.
Some government workers’ jobs have been restored after being mistakenly terminated, Musk noted, particularly those involved in essential work.
Shifting the focus to military recommendations, Musk suggested investing more in advanced weaponry such as hypersonic missiles and drones. For enhancing national infrastructure, he noted efforts to improve air traffic control systems.
Uncertainty looms about DOGE’s future, with Musk unwilling to specify his successor and suggesting DOGE endures as “a way of life.” While the project indicates winding down, he anticipates it will continue to gather momentum.
Musk’s personal connection to President Trump, fortified during the 2024 campaign where he made significant financial contributions, has positioned him as a recurrent figure in the administration’s early days. He frequently visits Trump’s Florida residence on weekends.
Reflecting on the early administration days, Musk shared he was intensely involved with DOGE, sometimes staying overnight at the White House, at Trump’s invitation.
Now, with reduced involvement, Musk aims to manage DOGE responsibilities more efficiently, spending less time at the nation’s capital. Structural constraints of his role, like the 130-day work limit, also guide his engagement.
Musk still leaves room for his “tiny” West Wing office, which he humorously described as providing safety due to its lack of external views, joking it offers a strategic advantage.