Elon Musk has officially concluded his role as a Special Government Employee and adviser to former US President Donald Trump, stepping down amid disagreements over the controversial "One Big, Beautiful Bill Act." Musk criticized the bill for its expansive scope and potential to increase the federal budget deficit.
Musk’s departure marks the end of his brief but high-profile tenure aimed at reducing federal bureaucracy through leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His exit coincides with heightened Republican divisions over the spending bill and growing public scrutiny of DOGE's effectiveness.
On social media platform X, Musk expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President @realDonaldTrump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending." A White House official later confirmed his departure.
The core disagreement stemmed from Musk's public condemnation of the bill, describing it during a CBS interview as "a massive spending bill" that could not simultaneously be "big and beautiful." He emphasized concerns that it would exacerbate the budget deficit.
Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) supported Musk’s stance, noting sympathy for the entrepreneur's discouragement and indicating that sufficient Republican opposition could prevent the bill's passage without serious fiscal reforms.
Despite criticism, Trump defended the legislation, acknowledging certain shortcomings but highlighting the compromises involved. He remarked, "I'm not happy about certain aspects of it, but I’m thrilled by other aspects of it… It’s got a way to go."
Musk also voiced frustrations in a Washington Post interview, describing DOGE as a "whipping boy" unfairly blamed for administrative failures beyond its control.
Trump had previously suggested Musk’s government role was temporary, acknowledging the challenges of balancing high-level advisory duties with leading major companies like Tesla and SpaceX. He affirmed his intention to retain Musk as long as possible but anticipated a return to private ventures.
Musk highlighted entrenched federal bureaucracy as a significant barrier to DOGE’s objectives, admitting the department fell short after eliminating thousands of government positions.
The political involvement also had repercussions on Musk's companies, with Tesla facing protests and even arson attacks due to his political associations.
Following a series of turbulent events, including a SpaceX Starship prototype explosion, Musk has announced a shift back to focusing on his private enterprises and away from political engagements, after reportedly investing approximately $250 million to support Trump.
