Elon Musk Defends Federal Job Cuts Amid Oversight Concerns
WASHINGTON (AP) — Elon Musk, President Donald Trump’s key adviser, made a rare public appearance at the White House on Tuesday to defend widespread federal workforce reductions. Standing beside Trump in the Oval Office, Musk acknowledged potential mistakes but insisted the reforms were necessary.
Musk leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has been scrutinizing federal spending. Trump praised the department’s findings, citing “shocking” waste, and signed an executive order expanding Musk’s influence over government hiring and downsizing. The order requires DOGE approval for most new hires and mandates agencies to hire only one worker for every four departures, with exceptions for immigration, law enforcement, and public safety.
Despite concerns over transparency, Musk asserted that DOGE’s activities are publicly accessible, though its website lacks details. The administration has also dismissed oversight officials, including the inspector general of the U.S. Agency for International Development, raising concerns about reduced accountability.
Musk defended his approach, stating, “The people voted for major government reform, and that’s what democracy is all about.” He admitted to making inaccurate claims, including a false assertion that $50 million was spent on condoms for Gaza but pledged to correct mistakes promptly.
The administration’s voluntary buyout program, offering federal employees financial incentives to resign, has been paused pending judicial review. Over 65,000 workers have accepted the offer, but critics warn of unintended consequences. Some federal employees report receiving persistent emails urging them to participate, while others express concerns about job security, workplace morale, and government stability.
Protests have emerged in support of federal employees, with critics arguing that the job cuts could hinder essential government services. Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) condemned the administration’s actions, stating, “We actually need these people to stay in their jobs, or things are going to start breaking.”
A federal attorney, speaking anonymously, described growing fears among government workers, including concerns over electronic surveillance and job security. Many employees are hesitant to accept the buyout, wary of legal risks and uncertain futures.
As the administration continues its efforts to restructure the federal workforce, the impact of these reforms remains uncertain, fueling both political debate and public concern.
