In the first 100 days of President Trump’s administration, Elon Musk’s role has notably diminished. Initially a central figure, Musk attended what appeared to be his last Cabinet meeting on April 30, after announcing plans to allocate less time to his role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) starting in May. Despite receiving applause from Cabinet members, Musk emphasized the burden of his multiple responsibilities, humorously showcasing a red “Gulf of America” hat over his “Make America Great Again” hat.
Musk’s transition to a reduced role stems from the backlash against his increasingly controversial public persona, which has adversely affected Tesla. The company’s earnings plummeted 71% in the first quarter of 2025. Trump expressed support for Musk, claiming he had endured unfair treatment and acknowledging his significant contributions to cutting federal waste, having reportedly saved approximately $160 billion, although this target fell short of the initial $1 trillion goal.
The Cabinet meeting marked Musk’s fifth attendance since Trump took office, highlighting his unique position as a “special government employee,” set to conclude by the end of May. As Musk steps back, his contentious relationship with key administration figures, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has been evident. Despite these tensions, Cabinet members praised DOGE for its efforts to eliminate inefficiencies and modernize outdated systems, reflecting the mixed sentiments surrounding Musk’s tenure in the White House.
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