In a farewell press conference inside the Oval Office, President Donald Trump expressed his unwavering support for Elon Musk, asserting that despite Musk's departure from his role overseeing the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency, known as Doge, he would remain actively involved. Trump reassured reporters that Musk would continue to visit the White House frequently, emphasizing his essential role in the initiatives aimed at reducing government expenditure and taxpayer burdens.
Trump Hails Musk's Legacy as Departure from Doge Looms
Trump Hails Musk's Legacy as Departure from Doge Looms
Elon Musk's farewell marks the end of a controversial chapter at the Trump White House.
Musk's exit comes after 130 days as a "special government employee," with considerable achievements attributed to Doge, including reported savings of $175 billion for the U.S. government, although only a segment of that amount has been substantiated. Yet, his tenure was marred by mass layoffs across federal agencies, as well as criticism and pushback against both his policies and his company Tesla, which has faced declining sales.
During the Oval Office meeting, Musk articulated his commitment to pursue $1 trillion in budget cuts, although he appeared at odds with Trump regarding the president's recent multi-trillion dollar tax breaks and defense spending proposal that Musk previously deemed as undermining Doge's purpose.
The press conference also took a turn when Musk was quizzed about a report alleging substance use during Trump's campaign, to which he deflected by referencing a defamation case involving notable media outlets. Additionally, Musk addressed a visible bruise near his eye, jokingly attributing it to playtime gone wrong with his young son.
Despite the controversies surrounding his administration, Trump reflected on Musk's accomplishments at Doge, stating that he would inherently change the mindset of government officials. Looking forward, Musk aims to cement the strides made under Doge while wrestling with the complexities of Washington politics.
Ultimately, the dialogue between Trump and Musk highlights the enduring connections in their collaboration, even as Musk embarks on the next chapter of his career.
During the Oval Office meeting, Musk articulated his commitment to pursue $1 trillion in budget cuts, although he appeared at odds with Trump regarding the president's recent multi-trillion dollar tax breaks and defense spending proposal that Musk previously deemed as undermining Doge's purpose.
The press conference also took a turn when Musk was quizzed about a report alleging substance use during Trump's campaign, to which he deflected by referencing a defamation case involving notable media outlets. Additionally, Musk addressed a visible bruise near his eye, jokingly attributing it to playtime gone wrong with his young son.
Despite the controversies surrounding his administration, Trump reflected on Musk's accomplishments at Doge, stating that he would inherently change the mindset of government officials. Looking forward, Musk aims to cement the strides made under Doge while wrestling with the complexities of Washington politics.
Ultimately, the dialogue between Trump and Musk highlights the enduring connections in their collaboration, even as Musk embarks on the next chapter of his career.
