Trump's Farewell to Musk: A New Chapter for Doge Awaits

As Elon Musk concludes his role in the Trump administration, both the President and Musk reaffirmed their commitment to the controversial Department of Government Efficiency. Despite Musk's departure, Trump insists he will remain involved, insisting Doge's mission to reduce government spending is far from over.

Elon Musk's time within the Trump administration has officially come to a close, marked by a news conference in the Oval Office where he and President Trump defended the work of the controversial Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), insisting its efforts would persist even in Musk's absence. Trump reassured supporters that Musk is "not really leaving," hinting at his continued involvement as he referred to Doge as "his baby."

Musk's departure comes 130 days after Trump resumed his presidency, the maximum time permitted under his role as a "special government employee." Doge, which serves primarily as an advisory body, aims to reduce government expenditure, save taxpayer funds, and alleviate the staggering $36 trillion national debt. Despite these ambitious goals, Musk's initiatives stirred considerable backlash, notably following significant layoffs in federal agencies and the cuts to USAID programs, leading to protests against Tesla and a notable dip in its sales.

Trump commended Musk for spearheading significant government reforms, stating that federal officials' "mindsets" have evolved thanks to Doge's efforts in fraud detection and waste reduction. However, independent analyses revealed discrepancies in the claimed savings amounts, with only a fraction accurately accounted for. Musk pledged that Doge's mission will relentlessly pursue $1 trillion in government cuts.

During the conference, Trump defended a comprehensive bill that includes tax reductions and increased military spending, which Musk previously criticized as undermining Doge's goals. The meeting turned contentious when a reporter inquired about Musk’s rumored drug use; Musk deflected by alluding to ongoing legal battles concerning discredited reports by major news outlets. Additionally, Musk’s bruised eye raised eyebrows when he jokingly attributed it to a playful encounter with his child rather than any political fallout.

As Musk departs, questions loom about the future of Doge and its mission to reshape government efficiency, with both Musk and Trump signaling that the work must continue relentless.