Featured Image Credit: JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images
Topics: Elon Musk, Donald Trump, US News, News, Politics
Rhianna Benson
Topics: Elon Musk, Donald Trump, US News, News, Politics
Despite being the richest man on the planet, Elon Musk has lifted the lid on plans to cut funding to federal agencies, as per a new order signed by Donald Trump.
During his debut appearance at the White House yesterday (11 February), the billionaire tech boss insisted that the cuts are 'common sense' and denied planning a 'hostile takeover' of the US government.
The technology front-runner was joined by his son X Æ A-12 in the Oval Office on Tuesday, where the pair witnessed recently sworn-in president Donald Trump - of whom Musk is a keen supporter and loyal colleague - signing a new executive order.
The policy was bestowed on Musk - who, last month, was made co-lead of Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) - giving him power to cut the size and spending of the federal workforce.
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As we say, however, one of the most hotly-discussed moments from yesterday's meeting saw Musk, 53, deny accusations that he's planning a 'hostile takeover' of the US government, using the new policy.
Taking questions from reporters while donning a 'Make America Great Again' cap, Musk was asked about the duties that come with his new role in the DOGE.
The inquisition comes as Democrats continue to accuse Trump's administration and Musk's department of providing a lack of transparency about their plans for the federal government.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer previously said: "An unelected shadow government is conducting a hostile takeover of the federal government."
Under the spotlight, however, the Tesla CEO described cuts to government funding as 'common sense' measures, and insisted they are 'not draconian or radical'.
As per the BBC, Musk went on: "The people voted for major government reform and that's what the people are going to get.
"That's what democracy is all about."
He added: "I fully expect to be scrutinised. It's not like I think I can get away with something."
Later, Musk - who was appointed by Trump (not elected) to his new position - went on to describe federal workers as 'unelected, fourth, unconstitutional branch of government', that he claimed had 'more power than any elected representative'.
"It's not optional for us to reduce the federal expenses," Musk continued.
"It's essential. It's essential for America to remain solvent as a country."
During the conference, Trump, 78, added: "I hope that the court system is going to allow us to do what we have to do."
According to The Conversation, however, Musk's new position gives him the authority to access the system responsible for all government payments, breach sensitive databases and private medical records, and circumvent conflict of interest/transparency requirements.
The publication also alleges that the role allows him to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and gain access to the computer systems of a number of federal agencies.
According to a poll recently conducted by CBS News, the majority of Americans are in favour of Musk's supposed endeavours, but appear to disagree with the level of influence Trump has seemingly allotted him.
However, Trump previously told the press: "Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval. And we’ll give him the approval where appropriate. Where not appropriate, we won’t."