President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk's partnership faces scrutiny as Musk's tenure as Department of Government Efficiency chair approaches its legal limit.
According to The Western Journal, Trump forcefully dismissed reports of a rift with Musk, expressing his desire for the tech mogul to remain in his administration "as long as possible."
The controversy erupted after Politico published a report suggesting tension between Trump and Musk, claiming the latter's departure from DOGE signaled a shift in their relationship. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt swiftly denounced the report as "garbage" on social media, emphasizing that both men had previously discussed Musk's eventual departure as a special government employee.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Thursday, Trump praised Musk's contributions and character. He outlined three key reasons for wanting Musk to continue his service:
Number one: I like him. Number two: He's doing a great job. Number three: He is a patriot. We're in no rush, but there will be a point in time in which Elon's going to have to leave.
The president acknowledged Musk's responsibilities as the head of multiple companies but expressed openness to appointing him to different special government employee positions to maintain their working relationship.
The real reason for Musk's anticipated departure stems from federal regulations limiting special government employees to 130-day appointments. This period is expected to expire in late May or early June, contrary to speculation about personal conflicts.
Trump's administration has already begun preparing for the transition, with plans to integrate Musk's team members into various agencies to continue their efficiency initiatives from within.
The president also teased a significant upcoming revelation from DOGE, describing it as "horrible" and "incredible," while crediting Musk and his team for the discovery.
Despite the impending leadership change, the administration remains confident in DOGE's future effectiveness. Trump emphasized the presence of capable individuals ready to carry forward Musk's work.
The president's remarks on Thursday largely echoed his earlier Oval Office statements, where he praised Musk's performance while acknowledging the temporary nature of his appointment. This consistency in messaging further undermines media speculation about tensions between the two leaders.
White House officials maintain that Musk's departure has been planned and transparent from the beginning. The tech entrepreneur will complete his term at DOGE while the administration prepares for a smooth transition.
Trump remains enthusiastic about continuing to work with Musk in various capacities, offering him virtually unlimited opportunities for future government service. This strong endorsement effectively counters narratives suggesting any deterioration in their working relationship.
The president's commitment to maintaining ties with Musk, coupled with the legal explanation for his departure, provides a clear picture of their ongoing collaboration in the service of government efficiency reforms.
