Billionaire Adviser Elon Musk’s Send-off from Trump’s Cabinet: A Tumultuous Tenure

Introduction to Musk’s Role in Trump’s Cabinet

At a recent cabinet meeting, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk bid farewell to his tenure as a government advisor. Sporting two baseball caps—one representing his government-slashing “DOGE” agency and another symbolizing the “GULF OF AMERICA”—Musk attended what could be his last cabinet meeting, marked by a warm reception balanced against a backdrop of tension. President Donald Trump joked, “He’s the only one who can do that and get away with it,” amid laughter from leaders affected by Musk’s agency cuts.

A Lighthearted Farewell Amidst a Rocky Term

The jovial mood masked a challenging period for Musk, who transitioned from CEO of Tesla to “special government employee” aiming to trim government expenditures. Despite fervent efforts, Musk’s goal of reducing federal spending by $2 trillion remains unmet. During the meeting, he claimed $160 billion in cuts—a number already in dispute. Musk remarked on his numerous responsibilities: “Well, Mr. President, you know, they say I wear a lot of hats.”

Impact on Tesla and Musk’s Personal Ventures

His political role coincided with a 71% decline in Tesla’s net income, attributed to complications like tariff issues and his divisive political positioning. “They do like to burn my cars, which is not great,” Musk lamented on increased incidents of vandalism targeting his dealerships.

Musk’s Departure and Uncertain Future

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The conclusion of Musk’s advisory duties at the Department of Government Efficiency is primarily fueled by his need to focus back on Tesla. However, Trump expressed willingness to retain Musk as long as desired, ushering uncertainties about Musk’s definitive exit.

Cabinet Dynamics and Disputes

Cabinet members experienced friction with Musk over his cuts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Musk famously sparred during a March meeting on staffing decisions, leading Trump to affirm departmental autonomy over personnel. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Musk engaged in a verbal dispute regarding IRS leadership.

Support and Criticism

Rubio acknowledged Musk’s restructuring efforts, albeit with reserve: “Luckily, they were free. They’re called the Department of Government Efficiency.” Counter to their past disagreements, Bessent commended improvements in cost and efficiency under the DOGE’s guidance.

The Cabinet’s Optimism on Future Savings

Despite Musk’s exit, Trump is optimistic about the Department of Government Efficiency’s future achievements. “That number could be doubled and even tripled,” he suggested, envisioning increased savings.

Musk’s Future Plans and Unresolved Commitments

Post-cabinet discussions clarified Musk’s intention to maintain contributions to federal cost-cutting until 2028. Additionally, he’ll retain office space in Washington for future visits.
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Conclusion: A Chapter Concludes, Yet Work Continues

While Musk’s tenure in the Trump Administration winds down, discussions about departmental cost-savings initiatives persist. As Musk shifts focus back to his entrepreneurial roots, government entities remain poised to build on his foundations.
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Sources: https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/30/politics/musk-cabinet-meeting-farewell