U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order for U.S. agencies to work with Elon Musk to reduce the federal workforce by identifying unnecessary positions and functions.
Musk, standing with Trump in the Oval Office, defended his role in cutting government waste, describing the federal bureaucracy as an overly powerful “unconstitutional” fourth branch. Despite criticism for secrecy, Musk asserted that his actions align with public demand for government reform.
The order mandates that agencies hire one new employee for every four who leave and requires collaboration with Musk’s team to identify significant reductions. Exemptions include roles critical to national security and public safety. Musk and Trump aim to save $1 trillion, though the plan faces legal challenges and conflict-of-interest concerns due to Musk’s role as CEO of SpaceX.
