by Elon Musk has officially stepped down from his advisory role in the Trump administration.
In a post on X, the billionaire thanked former President Donald Trump for the opportunity to serve as an unpaid special government employee under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), while also expressing frustration with recent legislation.
What Happened
Elon Musk ended his formal government role with the Trump administration.
He served as a Special Government Employee focused on reducing government waste.
Musk’s exit follows disagreement with Trump’s recent legislative agenda.
Key Details
Musk joined the administration after endorsing Trump in July 2024.
He co-led the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claiming to cut over $160 billion in federal waste.
DOGE initiatives led to a significant downsizing of the federal workforce and major cuts in foreign aid.
Musk previously committed to assisting the administration part-time while remaining Tesla’s CEO.
However, his role came into question after criticizing Trump’s proposed legislation during a CBS News interview.
Reactions or Statements
In his X post, Musk wrote:
“As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President Donald Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending.”
He added that the DOGE mission would “strengthen over time” as a government norm.
However, in the CBS interview aired around the same time, Musk criticized Trump’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill,” saying:
“I think a bill can be big or it can be beautiful. I don’t know if it can be both.”
Musk argued the bill undermines DOGE’s work.
Investigation or What’s Next
Trump’s bill includes major tax reforms, tougher welfare rules, and significant defense and border spending.
Musk’s departure raises questions about the future of DOGE and its aggressive cost-cutting measures.
While the administration praised DOGE’s initial impact, further legislative priorities may clash with its founding goals.
FAQs
Why did Elon Musk leave the Trump administration?
He stepped down after his scheduled term ended and due to disagreements over Trump’s latest spending bill.
What is DOGE?
The Department of Government Efficiency, co-led by Musk, aimed to cut federal waste and streamline operations.
How much did DOGE save under Musk?
DOGE reported $160 billion in savings, although this fell short of Musk’s $1 trillion goal.
Did Musk support Trump?
Yes, Musk endorsed Trump in July 2024 and later financially backed a pro-Trump PAC.
What’s in the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’?
The bill includes tax cuts, tougher aid rules, and increased spending on immigration, defense, and border security.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Elon Musk’s departure from the Trump administration marks a major shift in the White House’s government efficiency campaign.
His criticism of recent legislative efforts highlights a growing divide within the GOP’s vision for federal spending and reform.
As Trump pushes forward, the future of DOGE and its influence remains uncertain.
