New Delhi: Elon Musk has confirmed his departure from the Donald Trump administration, announcing the conclusion of his role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a federal task force focused on cutting wasteful government spending.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk stated, “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,” adding that he believes the agency will “only strengthen over time.”
Role as Special Government Employee Nears Legal Limit
Musk had been appointed as a Special Government Employee (SGE), a temporary federal designation that permits up to 130 days of public service annually. With Trump’s term having begun on January 20, Musk’s allowable days were set to expire by the end of May.
Musk’s Exit Follows Criticism of Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’
Musk’s departure came shortly after he publicly expressed disappointment in one of the Trump administration’s key legislative efforts, a sweeping bill featuring tax cuts and strict immigration policies. In an interview with CBS, Musk described the legislation as a “massive spending bill” that runs contrary to DOGE’s mission of fiscal responsibility.
“I think a bill can be big or it could be beautiful,” Musk quipped, “but I don’t know if it could be both.”
President Trump, responding to Musk’s critique, said, “I’m not happy about certain aspects of it, but I’m thrilled by other aspects of it.”
Speculation Swirls Over Musk’s Return to Tesla Focus
Musk’s political involvement has stirred controversy globally, leading to protests and calls for boycotts against Tesla. Investors have also voiced concerns that Musk’s government role may have contributed to recent drops in Tesla’s sales and profits, with critics urging him to refocus on the automaker’s core challenges.
With his official role in the administration now concluded, Musk is expected to return his full attention to Tesla and his other business ventures. Whether he will reengage with government efforts in the future remains to be seen.
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