**Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump administration, emphasized the need for large-scale layoffs of bureaucrats and spending cuts, criticizing bureaucracy. He argued that if no measures are taken against the fiscal deficit, the U.S. would face bankruptcy.**
Musk made these statements while standing next to President Trump in the Oval Office, underscoring that the restoration of democracy was both the goal of the Trump administration and the mission of DOGE. He criticized the power of bureaucrats over that of elected representatives and called for a bureaucracy that is responsive to the people, which he argued is the essence of democracy.
Musk also hinted at possible investigations into the high salaries of federal officials and questioned how some had amassed substantial wealth while on the taxpayer’s payroll.
During the event, Trump signed an executive order freezing federal hiring and reduction, granting hiring authority to DOGE. Musk warned about the federal deficit, stressing the necessity of reducing federal spending.
Criticism arose about potential conflicts of interest, with reports suggesting Musk’s businesses could benefit from Trump’s reforms. Musk responded by asserting the transparency of DOGE’s actions, with Trump supporting him by stating he wouldn’t allow a lack of transparency or conflicts of interest.
Legal challenges have arisen, such as a federal judge blocking DOGE’s access to the Treasury’s payment systems. Additionally, the administration’s efforts to close USAID were defended by Trump and Musk, both highlighting perceived incompetency and corruption without offering concrete evidence.