On May 28, tech entrepreneur Elon Musk announced his departure as a top adviser to President Donald Trump, citing clashes over a major spending and tax-cut bill he says will swell the federal deficit.
In a post on X, Musk thanked Trump for the chance to tackle "wasteful spending" as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—a role he held since Trump’s first day in office. During his tenure, Musk oversaw thousands of federal job cuts, dismantled USAID initiatives, and secured access to sensitive government data without standard oversight.
However, Musk’s relationship with the White House fractured as he pushed back on Trump’s pending spending package. The billionaire warns the legislation’s blend of increased outlays and tax breaks risks driving US debt higher, undermining long-term fiscal health.
Experts say Musk’s exit could reshape debates on government efficiency and fiscal policy. It also underscores growing tensions between innovative tech leaders and traditional political agendas—a flashpoint as the US heads into another election cycle.
For global watchers, Musk’s move highlights the challenges of reforming entrenched systems and balancing bold ideas with political realities. It also raises questions about the future of public-private collaborations in Washington’s corridors of power.
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Elon Musk steps down as Trump adviser, criticizes pending bill
cgtn.com
