Trump and Musk Bid Farewell in Oval Office as Doge Continues Goals

In a farewell news conference at the Oval Office, President Trump acknowledged Elon Musk's impact on the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) as Musk prepares to step down after 130 days in a special government role. Despite Musk's exit, Trump asserted that he would remain involved, suggesting Musk’s ongoing influence—primarily related to the mission of Doge, which focuses on cutting government costs and tackling the national debt, now at $36 trillion. Musk's tenure has not been without controversy, including significant layoffs and scrutiny over his companies and their association with the initiative.

Elon Musk’s departure comes amidst criticisms surrounding Doge, particularly regarding its handling of federal budget cuts and the impact on various aid programs. Defense spending, tax breaks, and Musk's comments on a recent New York Times report added layers to the day’s discussions. The two men underscored the ongoing efforts to "slash waste," with Musk committing to pursue further budget reductions despite facing public backlashes against his companies like Tesla. As Trump also highlighted legislative goals during the conference, he hinted at the possibility of further tax cuts, reiterating his support for Musk as a pivotal figure in the government's reform agenda.

Musk's work within the Trump administration has been labeled as "sweeping" yet contentious, marking a significant chapter in both his career and the current administration's attempts to realign government expenditures.