Elon Musk's growing influence in Trump's administration: Inside the Department of Government Efficiency

Time Magazine's latest edition presents a striking cover featuring Elon Musk seated behind the Resolute Desk, depicted as the U.S. President. Central to the story is Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has emerged as a dominant force in the administration.

As the world’s wealthiest individual, Musk holds substantial sway within Donald Trump’s White House. Leading DOGE, he has been instrumental in key decisions that could lead to groundbreaking changes. In the feature article, "Inside Elon Musk's War on Washington," Time notes, "Thus far, Musk appears to answer only to President Trump, who has granted his campaign benefactor sweeping authority to reshape the government in alignment with his vision."

The cover story takes on added significance amid the recent closure of the USAID department following Trump’s approval of a restructuring proposal. Thousands of USAID employees were placed on leave as of Friday night, according to news agencies. A USAID statement clarified that this directive affects all “direct-hire personnel,” except those engaged in “mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs.”

With Musk at the helm, DOGE has gained unprecedented access to crucial government data, allowing the agency to recommend cost-cutting measures across various departments. However, concerns are mounting over the unchecked nature of his influence and its implications for Trump’s presidency.

Meanwhile, journalist Maggie Haberman reports that Trump is privately growing “weary” of Musk’s constant presence, despite his status as a major donor and self-proclaimed “First Buddy.” The Daily Beast reinforces this narrative, highlighting growing tensions within Trump’s inner circle due to Musk’s proximity.

The feature has ignited speculation on social media, with many asserting that Musk, rather than Trump, is making the most critical decisions. The article states, “No single private citizen… has ever wielded such control over the U.S. government’s machinery.” Additionally, it underscores that Musk remains accountable only to Trump, with broad authority to align government functions with his objectives. When contacted for comment, DOGE referred all inquiries to the White House, which declined to respond.

The article describes the USAID shutdown as the first signal of a larger “anti-government wave,” forecasting drastic budget cuts, program eliminations, and the replacement of career civil servants with political appointees loyal to the President. However, some view Musk’s bureaucratic reforms as a necessary step rather than a cause for alarm.

The article warns of an impending public backlash against Musk’s unchecked power, arguing that his influence extends far beyond the federal budget or government agency headcounts. It states, "Americans will soon realize the ways they interact with the federal government that they either took for granted or didn’t fully appreciate. Companies exporting tech products to China may no longer have access to State or Commerce Department officials to navigate compliance with criminal law. Farmers in the Midwest may find that USAID-funded buyers are no longer purchasing grain for refugee camps. Across the globe, millions who depend on the U.S. for food, medicine, and shelter may be left to fend for themselves."

As Musk’s role in Washington expands, so does the debate over the consequences of one unelected individual wielding such extraordinary power.