Washington: The growing power and influence of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk have raised concerns within the U.S. bureaucracy, particularly following his recent aggressive interventions in government institutions.
According to reports, soon after former President Donald Trump’s inauguration, Musk, as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), began making sweeping changes, gaining access to sensitive financial data, and bypassing established bureaucratic protocols.
A major U.S. newspaper highlighted how Musk has been leveraging his influence and expanding his control, often operating independently of traditional government oversight. His close ties to China and extensive business interests have also sparked concerns over potential conflicts of interest.
Musk’s tenure at DOGE has already led to the shutdown of several government programs, including USAID, marking what critics call an extraordinary use of power. His team has taken control of key government agencies, and he has reportedly played a decisive role in the appointment of Troy Mehnke as Air Force Secretary.
Meanwhile, four lawsuits have been filed in U.S. courts challenging the legal authority of Musk’s department, accusing him of overstepping federal laws and Congressional limits. A Trump administration official, speaking anonymously, revealed that Musk is operating with an unprecedented level of autonomy.
Additionally, Musk has reportedly moved his team—comprising employees from his private companies—to a government office near the White House, where they often work late into the night and even stay overnight when needed.
With his influence expanding rapidly, Musk’s role in the U.S. government is becoming a subject of intense debate and scrutiny.