In a notable farewell in the Oval Office, President Trump and entrepreneur Elon Musk addressed the media regarding Musk's departure from the Department of Government Efficiency, affectionately known as Doge. Trump asserted that Musk is "not really leaving," promising that he will still be present at the White House frequently. “It’s his baby,” Trump remarked, referring to Musk's impactful role in the initiative aimed at cutting government expenses and tackling the national debt reaching $36 trillion.
Musk’s exit comes 130 days after his appointment as a "special government employee," making him eligible for a brief tenure. Doge was established to streamline government spending, which has sparked considerable debate, particularly in light of the significant layoffs and program cuts across federal agencies, including those related to USAID. This controversial overhaul has drawn protests targeting Musk's businesses like Tesla, leading to a notable decline in sales.
During the press conference, Trump praised Musk for his efforts, claiming that the transformations initiated by Doge represented some of the most dramatic government reform in decades. He stated that the initiative has saved approximately $175 billion, a figure whose details have prompted scrutiny, with only a fraction of the savings clearly articulated. “He’s not really leaving,” Trump insisted, alluding to Musk’s plans to continue seeking substantial budget cuts.
Musk echoed this sentiment, expressing Doge's ongoing mission to achieve $1 trillion in financial efficiency. The timing of their statements follows Musk's criticism of Trump’s proposed new legislation, which he believes may compromise Doge’s goals. Trump defended his comprehensive bill, which promises large tax cuts and military spending increases, while also hinting at the need for further reductions.
The press event took an unexpected twist when Musk faced questions regarding a recent allegation about his drug use during Trump’s 2024 campaign and his physical appearance, which had led to public curiosity about a visible bruise. Musk sidestepped the drug inquiry and humorously attributed his eye injury to a playful interaction with his son.
As Musk moves on from an official role in government, both he and Trump appear committed to ensuring that the mission of Doge continues unabated, with the promise of ongoing collaboration in reforming government efficiency.
Musk’s exit comes 130 days after his appointment as a "special government employee," making him eligible for a brief tenure. Doge was established to streamline government spending, which has sparked considerable debate, particularly in light of the significant layoffs and program cuts across federal agencies, including those related to USAID. This controversial overhaul has drawn protests targeting Musk's businesses like Tesla, leading to a notable decline in sales.
During the press conference, Trump praised Musk for his efforts, claiming that the transformations initiated by Doge represented some of the most dramatic government reform in decades. He stated that the initiative has saved approximately $175 billion, a figure whose details have prompted scrutiny, with only a fraction of the savings clearly articulated. “He’s not really leaving,” Trump insisted, alluding to Musk’s plans to continue seeking substantial budget cuts.
Musk echoed this sentiment, expressing Doge's ongoing mission to achieve $1 trillion in financial efficiency. The timing of their statements follows Musk's criticism of Trump’s proposed new legislation, which he believes may compromise Doge’s goals. Trump defended his comprehensive bill, which promises large tax cuts and military spending increases, while also hinting at the need for further reductions.
The press event took an unexpected twist when Musk faced questions regarding a recent allegation about his drug use during Trump’s 2024 campaign and his physical appearance, which had led to public curiosity about a visible bruise. Musk sidestepped the drug inquiry and humorously attributed his eye injury to a playful interaction with his son.
As Musk moves on from an official role in government, both he and Trump appear committed to ensuring that the mission of Doge continues unabated, with the promise of ongoing collaboration in reforming government efficiency.
