Elon Musk was in a prime position to witness Trump’s congressional address on Tuesday in the House gallery, where his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency took the spotlight in Trump’s speech. Musk has emerged as a key figure in Trump’s administration, alongside the president himself, spearheading efforts within the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The pace at which DOGE has been slashing government expenditures, implementing large-scale layoffs, causing disruption across various federal agencies, and sparking controversy has been remarkable.
“I have established the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. Perhaps you are familiar with it. It is led by Elon Musk, who is present in the gallery tonight,” Trump announced. “Thank you, Elon, for your dedicated efforts. You didn’t have to take on this responsibility. Thank you very much. Your contributions are valued.” Musk rose from his seat in the gallery, acknowledging the recognition with a nod as Republican supporters applauded.
During his address, the president highlighted federal expenses that he labeled as “questionable practices” that DOGE has set its sights on, ranging from $45 million designated for diversity, equity, and inclusion scholarships in an Asian nation to $59 million spent on hotel accommodations for undocumented immigrants in New York City. While Trump stated that DOGE is under Musk’s leadership, recent court filings contradict this claim. The White House has officially named Amy Gleason as the acting administrator of DOGE.
Following Trump’s speech, Democrats called for Musk’s dismissal. Over thirty Democratic lawmakers collectively penned a letter to the president, asserting that the new Republican administration unlawfully terminated numerous government officials whose agencies were investigating or prosecuting companies owned by Musk. Prominent figures leading the charge against Musk include Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Cory Booker of New Jersey, as well as officials from the House Oversight and Judiciary committees, such as Representatives Gerry Connolly of Virginia and Jamie Raskin of Maryland.
The removal of agency heads and staff by the Trump administration has affected eleven federal agencies involved in investigations related to Musk-owned enterprises like Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, according to the letter. These agencies are currently pursuing 32 ongoing investigations, complaints, or enforcement actions against companies under Musk’s ownership.
Credits: Riley Beggin, USA TODAY
This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Trump commends Elon Musk and DOGE for their efforts in reducing government spending.
