During a recent visit to the Oval Office, Elon Musk vigorously defended his role in leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a task force that aims to reduce government spending and bureaucracy. Musk positioned DOGE as an embodiment of democratic principles, reflecting the will of voters who supported President Donald Trump.
“That’s what democracy is all about,” Musk stated.
Accompanied by one of his sons, Musk stood alongside Trump during a press event that was initially billed as an executive order signing ceremony.
The executive order signed privately directed federal agencies to collaborate with DOGE in downsizing their workforce and limiting new hires to essential positions only. Once Trump’s initial hiring freeze expires, agencies will be restricted from hiring more than one employee for every four departing staff members.
Addressing concerns about potential conflicts between his government role and business interests, Musk stressed transparency as crucial for building trust.
“Transparency is what builds trust, not simply somebody asserting trust,” he said. As a “special government employee,” Musk does not have to disclose his financial information publicly.
DOGE has been at the center of controversy due to its aggressive cost-cutting measures and shutdowns of federal contracts and agencies. Critics have expressed outrage over these actions conducted behind closed doors by DOGE staff members. The backlash has led to multiple lawsuits against the task force.
In response to questions about judicial oversight on these reforms, President Trump indicated openness to congressional approval if needed but criticised court rulings that temporarily halted some initiatives.
“It gives crooked people more time to cover up the books,” Trump said.