President Trump Clarifies Role in Government Restructuring Amidst Elon Musk’s Advisory Influence
In a recent move to address ongoing concerns about government restructuring, President Trump emphasized that his Cabinet members are responsible for managing staff reductions rather than relying on Elon Musk, who has been a controversial figure in these changes. This statement came during a closed-door meeting with key secretaries, which Musk also attended.
“I don’t want to see a big cut where a lot of good people are cut. I want the Cabinet members to keep the good people, and the people that aren’t doing a good job, that are unreliable, don’t show up to work, etc., those people can be cut,” Trump stated to reporters from the Oval Office.
Addressing the possibility of cuts, Trump noted, “If they can cut, it’s better. And if they don’t cut then Elon will do the cutting.”
Musk is prominently associated with efforts by the Trump administration to reduce federal spending and staffing through a fictional entity known as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite Musk’s visible involvement, the White House clarifies that he serves as a “special government employee” without direct policy-setting authority.
The lack of clarity surrounding DOGE’s leadership and Musk’s role has led to criticism and legal challenges against the department and its layoffs. Recently, Trump inadvertently added to this confusion by suggesting in an address to Congress that Musk heads DOGE.
Trump’s remarks reflect a rare public attempt to delineate Musk’s role, following concerns from lawmakers that decision-making should rest with agency leaders. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed to CNN that while Musk’s objectives are appropriate, agency heads are “probably better attuned to the individual programs.”
Further planned reductions across federal agencies were highlighted in a social media post by Trump. He articulated a strategy where secretaries work with DOGE for precise staffing decisions, advocating for the use of a “scalpel” rather than a “hatchet” approach to cuts.
Trump added: “It’s very important that we cut levels down to where they should be, but it’s also important to keep the best and most productive people.”
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