In a move that has stunned both supporters and critics, Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, has been rapidly consolidating control over significant aspects of the US government. Under President Donald Trump’s administration, Musk has not only gained access to key government functions but is also overseeing critical departments and agencies with minimal oversight or congressional approval. His growing influence raises urgent questions about the balance of power and the limits of executive authority.
Musk’s New Role in the Government
Musk’s power grab began just two weeks after Trump took office, marking an aggressive push to reshape federal agencies and departments. Appointed as a special government employee, Musk is not held to the same stringent ethical standards as other government workers, giving him a unique and controversial position. His main goal? To cut spending, reduce government size, and eliminate inefficiencies.
Trump has granted Musk office space within the White House complex, allowing him to lead a new initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency. This department’s role is to streamline the government, with Musk’s team embedded within various agencies to make sweeping changes. For instance, Musk’s team was recently spotted at the Department of Education, which Trump has already expressed intentions to abolish.
Trump’s Approval and Musk’s Expanding Role
While Republicans have defended Musk, claiming he is simply fulfilling Trump’s promises to “slash and burn” the federal government, Democrats are raising alarms about the lack of transparency and accountability. Trump himself has downplayed concerns, stating that Musk’s efforts are in line with his administration’s goals, and any potential conflicts of interest would be handled appropriately.
Trump said, “Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval,” while also dismissing concerns about conflicts of interest. The president has taken a largely hands-off approach, allowing Musk the autonomy to reshape the bureaucracy without significant checks and balances.
Democrats Raise Concerns About Musk’s Power
Democrats are not pleased with Musk’s growing role. Many are accusing him of “leading a coup” within the government, asserting that he has amassed an alarming amount of unaccountable power. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland has called it an outrage, vowing to use the Senate and House to push back against Musk’s efforts.
Senator Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, has also voiced concerns, particularly regarding Musk’s access to sensitive information, such as Treasury payment systems and government contracts. Schumer demanded that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revoke Musk’s access to these systems, calling it an “unlawful power grab.”
Musk’s Major Moves: Shutting Down USAID
One of Musk’s most controversial actions was at the US Agency for International Development (USAID). The agency, which provides humanitarian aid and global development assistance, was essentially shut down under Musk’s orders. Yellow police tape blocked access to the USAID lobby, and employees were locked out of their computer systems. Musk claimed the agency was “beyond repair,” asserting that it needed to be dismantled entirely.
This is a bold move considering that USAID is one of the largest providers of humanitarian, security, and development assistance globally. Shutting it down raises immediate concerns about the future of global aid and whether Musk’s decisions will lead to major humanitarian setbacks.
The Federal Workers: In the Dark
Federal employees are feeling the tension as Musk’s restructuring continues. Workers have been warned that they may soon lose access to critical systems such as the Human Resources system and their personal employment records. Many have been encouraged to back up their information, including pay history and service records, in case they are locked out of these systems.
Moreover, federal agencies such as the General Services Administration (GSA), which handles federal property, have received orders to begin terminating leases on thousands of federal offices nationwide. This move is reportedly led by Nicole Hollander, a Musk appointee who previously worked for Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter).
Musk’s Approach: A Silicon Valley Playbook?
Known for disrupting industries, Musk is bringing a Silicon Valley approach to government — a no-holds-barred strategy that prioritises efficiency and profit. Experts like Rob Lalka, a business innovation professor, have compared Musk’s tactics to the typical startup mentality that favours rapid, unchecked change.
Musk’s influence goes beyond just cutting spending. He has gained access to the US Treasury payment system, which handles billions of payments annually, including Social Security and tax payments. This raises alarms about the security of sensitive data and the potential for abuse, as Musk has claimed that he could cut the federal deficit by addressing waste, fraud, and abuse.
Why Does Musk Want to Reshape the Government?
Musk’s motivations seem to be driven by a desire to reduce government inefficiencies and the national debt, but critics worry that his influence over these departments will lead to unchecked power and conflicts of interest. Musk has made it clear that he views this as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to overhaul the government and cut waste.
In a live conversation streamed on X, Musk emphasised his commitment to making significant changes. “If it’s not possible now, it will never be possible,” Musk said, portraying this as a “best hand of cards” that must be played, regardless of the consequences.
The Trump-Musk Relationship: A Political Partnership
Musk’s deepening involvement in the federal government also appears to be a form of political loyalty to Trump. Musk has been a prominent supporter of Trump, spending around $250 million on pro-Trump efforts during his campaign. Musk has also hinted at endorsing primary challenges against Republican lawmakers who oppose Trump’s agenda.
Despite criticisms from Democrats, Trump has praised Musk, calling him a “great guy” and pointing out that Musk’s ideas are worth exploring. This close political relationship has led some to believe that Musk’s influence in the government is not just about reforming inefficiencies but about aligning with Trump’s vision for government and the economy.
Looking Ahead: What Does Musk’s Growing Power Mean?
Musk’s increasing control over the federal government has the potential to reshape not only the US bureaucracy but also how public policy is made and executed. His approach to government is driven by the same disruptor mentality that has made him successful in business, but it has raised serious questions about accountability, oversight, and the future of key government services.
As Musk continues to push the boundaries of his authority, it remains to be seen whether he will face legal or political challenges that could curtail his influence. For now, Democrats remain alarmed, while Republicans are rallying behind him as a champion of change.
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
- Elon Musk’s Role in the Government
- USAID and Global Aid Concerns
- Silicon Valley Influence on Government
Photo credit: CNN
