Elon Musk’s time working with the Trump administration started with a bang but wrapped up quietly last Thursday.
After months of headlines and big promises, Musk officially stepped down from his role as a “Special Government Employee,” a move he announced online shortly before the White House issued a brief statement of thanks.
White House Thanks Musk for His Service and Cost-Cutting Efforts
Karoline Leavitt, speaking on behalf of the White House, expressed appreciation for Musk’s contributions.
“We thank him for his service,” she said, highlighting Musk’s work to “get those off the ground” and his team’s efforts to cut waste, fraud, and abuse in government.
This ended Musk’s 130-day stint in the role.
Trump’s Mixed Messages About Musk’s Departure
Back in April, President Trump had hinted that Musk would be leaving “in a few months,” though he added he wanted Musk to stay “as long as possible.”
Trump praised Musk as a patriot and a friend, calling him someone who never asked for favors — a testament to Musk’s unique position in the administration.
Musk Criticizes Trump’s Big Spending Bill in Final Interviews
In the days leading up to his exit, Musk didn’t shy away from voicing his opinions.
In a notable interview with CBS, he criticized the “big, beautiful bill” that narrowly passed the House.
This bill, a top legislative priority for Trump, extended tax cuts at a cost of $4.5 trillion.
Musk called it disappointing because it increased the budget deficit instead of reducing it.
He said, “I think a bill can be big or it can be beautiful, but I don’t know if it can be both.”
Musk’s comments clashed with the White House’s enthusiasm — Leavitt reiterated that the President was proud of the bill and eager for the Senate to pass it quickly.
From Patriot Praise to Political Critique
Just two months before, Trump had lauded Musk and his “DOGE team,” a group tasked with identifying government waste and slashing unnecessary contracts.
Musk’s team claimed to have found $175 billion in cuts, though Musk had originally aimed for $2 trillion.
Despite the fanfare, Musk later admitted in an interview with Ars Technica that he may have spent “too much time on politics,” acknowledging some distractions from his usual ventures.
Mixed Legacy and Public Perception
Musk’s departure leaves him with a mixed legacy and an “under water” public approval rating — 39% favorable versus 54% unfavorable.
While Trump has largely stayed silent on Musk’s recent critiques of the budget bill, the billionaire’s time in government remains a topic of debate.
What Comes Next for Musk and the Administration?
As Musk moves on, the Trump administration looks to continue pushing its legislative priorities without him.
Meanwhile, Musk’s critics and supporters alike are watching closely to see how his political foray might influence his future projects and public image.