The U.S. President convened a cabinet meeting on Thursday to discuss Elon Musk's initiative to reduce government spending and personnel. The meeting was reportedly intense, according to multiple media sources.
Musk criticized the Secretary of State for insufficient staff cuts at the State Department, according to The New York Times. He also clashed with the Secretary of Transportation over his team’s efforts to reduce the number of air traffic controllers, despite existing shortages within the Federal Aviation Administration.
After listening to the heated debate, the President affirmed his continued support for Musk's government efficiency initiative. However, he stated that from now on, cabinet secretaries would have the final decision-making authority, while Musk's team would serve in an advisory capacity.
A State Department spokesperson described the cabinet meeting as an "open and productive discussion." However, the White House has not released an official statement regarding the reports.
This move signals a possible shift in the government's cost-cutting strategy, which had previously given Musk and his team broad authority to implement efficiency measures across various federal agencies. The President later emphasized on social media that cabinet secretaries must collaborate with Musk’s team to execute budget reductions.
He also stressed the importance of a measured approach, advocating for a "scalpel" rather than a "hatchet" when implementing efficiency measures.
A few weeks earlier, Musk had made a symbolic statement by wielding a chainsaw at a conservative conference, demonstrating his aggressive approach to reducing government spending. His team even sent official emails to millions of federal employees, offering upfront payments as incentives for voluntary resignations.
These cost-cutting measures have raised concerns, particularly after several essential government employees, including those involved in nuclear security, were affected. Some federal agencies have since rescinded termination orders due to their unintended consequences.
Several federal judges overseeing related cases have also expressed concerns about the extent of Musk's authority in the government efficiency initiative. The President’s recent statement before Congress confirming Musk’s control over the initiative has further fueled the debate.
Despite tensions during the cabinet meeting, the relationship between the President and Musk remains strong. The two were seen traveling together aboard Air Force One for a weekend at the President’s Florida residence, signaling that their collaboration continues. While differences in approach have emerged, the President remains supportive of Musk’s long-term goal of reducing government spending, though he now advocates for a more cautious and precise execution of the plan.