Elon Musk's Hands Tied? 'Can't Fire Federal Workers', Donald Trump Clarifies DOGE Role

US President Donald Trump, during a meeting on Thursday, informed the cabinet authorities that they are solely in charge of executive decisions like staffing and cost-cutting, Reuters reported. He further said that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and its head, Elon Musk, will play an advisory role only and have no authority on “personnel, policy and the pacing of implementation” at government agencies.

The world’s richest man and Tesla chief was present in the meeting and said that he was good with Trump’s decision.

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The meeting was conducted after several agency heads and top White House officials, including Susie Wiles complained about Musk and DOGE’s usurping authority over federal agencies. The White House Office of Legislative Affairs reportedly received several calls in the past few days from frustrated Republicans all over the country, some of whom have faced anger from constituents at home.

Trump’s decision is also a response to multiple lawsuits challenging Musk’s authority and suing DOGE over staff firings. These legal battles have prompted the government to argue in court filings that Musk lacks decision-making authority, as it has struggled to clearly define his exact role.

Reports indicate that similar cabinet meetings will be held every two weeks. This meeting marks Trump's first formal attempt to curb Musk’s influence. However, he noted that while Musk will continue to make recommendations for cuts, he will only step in if department heads fail to implement sufficient reductions.

During the discussion, Trump reassured his cabinet, saying, “Keep all the people you want, everybody that you need.” “I want them to do the best job they can,” he added. “Where we have good people, that is precious, very important, and we want them to keep the good people.”

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Trump-Musk Bonhomie

The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has been marked by ups and downs. Initially, Musk was critical of Trump, questioning his character and leadership abilities during the 2016 presidential race. The dynamic shifted in 2023 when Musk voiced support for stricter immigration measures, a hallmark of Trump’s policies. After an assassination attempt on Trump in 2024, Musk’s stance changed dramatically and his support for Trump became evident. He also pledged $45 million monthly to support Trump’s re-election, signaling a surprising alliance.

The Trump-Musk camaraderie grew deeper during Trump’s election campaigning. “We have a new star, a star is born; Elon,” said Trump while addressing a crowd in Florida. “He is an amazing guy. We were sitting together tonight. You know, he spent two weeks in Philadelphia, in different parts of Pennsylvania, campaigning,” he added.