Elon Musk: Special government advisor stirs controversy
According to a White House spokesperson, Elon Musk has been designated a special government employee. She described him as "a once-in-a-generation business leader" and a friend of the president who "has some common sense."
Elon Musk, the founder of companies like SpaceX and Tesla, has been granted the status of an exceptional government employee, indicating that he will serve as an advisor in the federal administration for fewer than 130 days a year.
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt explained that his main task is "eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse" within government structures. However, during the press conference, she could not confirm whether he had undergone any procedures related to access to classified information.
When questioned about the billionaire's qualifications, Leavitt emphasized that Musk is a "once-in-a-generation business leader" and a friend of President Trump, who "also has some common sense."
Collaboration with the Department of Government Efficiency
Musk and his team, associated with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have taken charge of key government agencies and gained access to federal employee data and the Treasury payment system.
Among the controversial businessman's collaborators are young college graduates who previously interned at companies associated with the billionaire.
Closure of the USAID agency
Musk's controversial actions include closing the USAID foreign aid agency, which he labeled a "criminal organization." Democrats have announced plans to file court complaints to halt these actions, arguing that they are unlawful.
President Trump and his spokesperson assert that all of Musk's actions are legal and align with the president's goals. The politician also assured that Musk would be stopped in the event of a conflict of interest. However, the opposition remains skeptical, fearing potential abuses related to the billionaire's new role.
