1 week ago
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EXCERPT: Elon Musk has denied claims of a “hostile takeover,” defending deep government cuts as necessary for America’s financial stability.
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk made an unexpected appearance at the White House on Tuesday, standing beside President Donald Trump to defend his controversial cost-cutting measures and dismiss claims of a “hostile takeover” of the U.S. government.
Musk, who was appointed to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), took questions from reporters in the Oval Office as Trump signed an executive order expanding Doge’s authority to slash the federal workforce. The order instructs agency heads to comply with Doge’s directives, further cementing Musk’s influence over government restructuring efforts.
Facing criticism from Democrats and legal challenges, Musk maintained that the sweeping government cuts were necessary and aligned with the will of the American people.
“The people voted for major government reform, and that’s what they’re going to get,” Musk said. “That’s what democracy is all about.”
Dressed in a black “Make America Great Again” cap and at times carrying his young son on his shoulders, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO dismissed concerns about overreach. He argued that federal workers had become an “unelected, fourth, unconstitutional branch of government” wielding more power than elected representatives.
“It’s not optional for us to reduce federal expenses,” Musk said. “It’s essential for America to remain solvent as a country.”
Musk’s cost-cutting drive has faced fierce opposition from Democratic lawmakers and watchdog groups, who warn of far-reaching consequences for domestic programs and international aid efforts. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer recently called Doge an “unelected shadow government conducting a hostile takeover.”
Despite strong Republican support in Congress, Trump’s agenda has encountered legal hurdles. Court rulings have temporarily halted some of the administration’s plans, including a federal employee buyout program. Trump acknowledged these challenges, saying, “I hope that the court system is going to allow us to do what we have to do.”
Additionally, critics have raised concerns about Musk’s vast business empire, arguing that his involvement in government decision-making presents potential conflicts of interest. Musk dismissed these claims, stating, “The public can take its own view.” Trump backed him, saying the administration would intervene if a conflict of interest became apparent.
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