“President Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday empowering DOGE to scrutinize how federal agencies spend money, the latest expansion of Elon Musk’s cost-cutting powers,” Axios reports.
On February 26, 2025, Trump held a Cabinet meeting that clearly demonstrated Musk’s elevated status within the administration. During this lengthy gathering, most Senate-confirmed agency heads remained largely silent, while Musk, occupying a corner of the room, took center stage.
Key developments in Musk’s expanding role include:
- Executive Order on Workforce Reduction: Trump signed an order instructing federal agencies to develop strategies for significant workforce reductions and limit new hires to only “necessary positions.”
- DOGE Oversight: The executive order grants DOGE considerable influence over the structure of the civil service, with the power to determine future hiring of career officials.
- Hiring Restrictions: Agencies are now required to seek hiring authorization from a DOGE Team Lead, with a limit of one new employee for every four who leave.
- Expanded Scope: DOGE has engaged with at least 19 federal agencies to identify programs for elimination.
- Controversial Targets: DOGE is considering cuts to agencies such as USAID, CFPB, and potentially even FEMA, raising concerns about the country’s ability to respond to natural disasters.
Trump has publicly endorsed Musk’s efforts, challenging Cabinet members to voice concerns and encouraging him to go further. However, this rapid accumulation of power has sparked backlash, confusion, and legal challenges.
What do you think of Elon Musk’s role in the government?