In a lively Oval Office press conference this week, President Donald Trump toasted Tesla boss Elon Musk’s “incredible service” with a golden key, even as Musk officially steps back from his dogged government efficiency team, known as DOGE.
“Many of the DOGE people are staying on,” Trump said. “And Elon’s really not leaving. He’s going to be back and forth.”
The administration claims DOGE has achieved $170 billion in savings—far short of Musk’s $2 trillion target. Independent trackers put the number between $2 billion and $12 billion, illustrating the challenges of slashing federal costs.
More eyes, however, were on Musk’s fresh bruise. When pressed about drug-related rumors—alleging heavy ketamine use on the 2024 campaign trail—Musk deflected. Instead, he chalked up the black eye to roughhousing with his five-year-old son, saying, “I said, ‘Go ahead, punch me in the face.’ And he did.”
The Tesla and SpaceX chief has also voiced disappointment with the White House’s mega tax and spending plans, arguing that new bills could undo DOGE’s cuts. With Tesla sales softening and recent rocket mishaps at SpaceX, Musk’s plate is full—both in and out of government.
Yet, as Trump emphasizes, Musk’s government chapter isn’t closing: “Elon’s really not leaving,” the president repeated, hinting at more press conferences (and perhaps more bruises) to come.
For young global citizens and tech enthusiasts, Musk’s back-and-forth between boardrooms and the White House spotlights the evolving role of private leaders in public policy—where a single tweet or joke can ripple across markets and newsfeeds worldwide.
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Trump praises Elon Musk and DOGE, as Tesla CEO departs government
cgtn.com
