Elon Musk Struggles to Balance Business Ventures Amidst Involvement with DOGE
During an interview with Fox News’ Larry Kudlow, Elon Musk opened up about the challenges he faces juggling his various businesses while being involved with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an initiative spearheaded by former President Donald Trump aimed at reducing federal spending.
When Kudlow inquired about how Musk manages his other ventures alongside DOGE, Musk candidly admitted, “With great difficulty. Frankly, I can’t believe I’m here doing this.”
DOGE, which currently employs around 100 staff members with plans to expand to 200, has come under fire for failing to deliver on promised spending cuts within U.S. government agencies. Critics argue that the initiative’s online records of reductions contain inaccurate information and inflate claims of savings by utilizing misleading math regarding contract cancellations.
Furthermore, cybersecurity analysts have raised concerns about DOGE jeopardizing the country’s data and computing infrastructure. Reports indicate that DOGE staff, some lacking experience in government systems, have accessed agency data through insecure methods and stored it on unprotected servers.
Despite Musk’s complaints about the strain advising DOGE places on him, allegations have surfaced accusing him of leveraging the initiative to weaken regulations that oversee his own business interests.
For instance, DOGE has dismantled the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s oversight of peer-to-peer payment systems, including X’s upcoming virtual wallet product. It has also reduced staff at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which was investigating safety concerns related to Tesla’s assisted driving technologies. Additionally, DOGE has terminated probationary employees at the Federal Aviation Administration and advocated for staff reductions at the Securities and Exchange Commission, entities with which Musk has had contentious relationships.
When questioned about extending his involvement with DOGE, Musk expressed his willingness to continue for another year, emphasizing the importance of taking action over producing reports. He stated, “We’re just getting things done, as opposed to writing a report. Like, reports don’t mean anything. You’ve got to actually take action.”
