Trump clarifies Musk's advisory role amidst layoff concerns

During Thursday's cabinet meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump explained that while Elon Musk can recommend employment reductions in departments, he cannot make independent decisions. This information was shared by the "Politico" website. Musk, who was present at the meeting, concurred with the President.

The meeting was called in response to a series of mass layoffs in government institutions, which had sparked protests and lawsuits. Criticism came from both the Democratic Party and some Republicans. According to "The Guardian," Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), emphasized in private conversations with politicians that federal agencies are ultimately responsible for decisions on layoffs.

"Politico" notes that Trump's comments were aimed at easing Republican concerns about Musk's potential undue influence over federal agencies. There was controversy since the billionaire had not been elected or confirmed by Congress. The President stressed that Musk does not have more power than other White House advisors and can only advise the President and communicate his directives.

Numerous lawsuits related to DOGE focus on Musk's access to sensitive data and his sway over government decisions. On Wednesday, another lawsuit was filed, accusing Musk of uncontrolled ravaging of the federal government. The government maintains that Musk is neither a formal employee nor an administrator of DOGE, a point that might aid the Trump administration in its defense in court.

The argument that formal agency authorities, not Musk, make final personnel and substantive decisions could be crucial in legal rulings. "Politico" suggests that this stance might help protect the administration from unfavorable court outcomes.