Elon Musk's increasing involvement in Donald Trump's administration is being questioned. The billionaire, who is now a senior advisor, has an important role to play in ensuring that executive orders are effectively implemented. Notwithstanding his power, there are growing legal battles against his presence in government.
In an interview, he defended Musk against his critics by calling him a "patriot" and a main factor for his administration's thrust towards efficiency measures. He acknowledges his contributions, assuring the public that the tech mogul makes sure that orders are executed without resistance.
However, Trump was quick to add that Musk should have no power over space matters to avoid conflict of interest.
Following the launch of Grok 3, Trump downplayed Musk's authority, stating that while the billionaire plays a key role in the administration, he is not the one calling the shots. Trump made it clear that Musk’s position is advisory, not executive, and any speculation about him controlling government decisions is exaggerated. This statement comes amid increasing legal scrutiny over Musk’s deep involvement in shaping policy through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Despite Trump's comments, Musk remains at the center of controversy, especially after DOGE audits led to agency shake-ups. Critics argue that Musk’s influence goes beyond mere advisory work, with his recommendations swiftly turning into executive actions. While Trump insists that he remains in full control, the growing presence of Musk in government affairs continues to fuel debates about the balance of power within the administration.
Musk heads up the new department called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for wasting money in government. The DOGE crew started getting into federal systems and auditing agencies on inefficiencies, which has already stirred more than a few lawsuits from various states. Critics charge Musk holds too much power for the constitutional violation.
The White House denied further allegations that Musk has undue influence. Officials specified that Musk does not serve as a government employee and therefore has no immediate power to make specific decisions. Yet, apprehensions remain regarding what the extent of control is.
In a broadcast interview with Fox News, Trump emphasized the role of Musk in enforcing presidential directives. He spoke of the extent to which bureaucracy will create obstacles to compliance but credited Musk with putting the heat on federal agencies to comply. This latest executive order by Trump now aims at centralizing White House control over regulatory agencies, which raises further issues.
Musk has called the claims an overreach, claiming that he needs to realize Trump's vision and must be working for the people. The ongoing legal drama still continues and leaves the question of what extent of Musk's power is wielded through the government.