Elon Musk’s 138-day experiment as a “special government employee” in the Trump administration concluded with a bruised departure from the White House. His ambitious “Department of Government Efficiency” (Doge) initiative, which aimed to save $2 trillion, fell significantly short, contributing to a decline in his public image and the performance of his business empire.
Musk’s confrontational style, which included public feuds with cabinet secretaries and a declared intent to dismantle federal agencies, created more chaos than cost savings. His efforts to streamline the government were met with significant resistance, leading to widespread resentment and a sense of disillusionment among federal workers. His parting criticism of Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” further highlighted the underlying friction.
The most striking moment of his farewell briefing was the unexpected sight of Musk’s black eye. While reporters pressed for a dramatic explanation, Musk offered a surprisingly mundane one: a playful incident with his young son. This prosaic detail, amidst the high-stakes political backdrop, served as a poignant metaphor for the anticlimactic nature of his departure and the unraveling of his once-invincible aura.
Musk concluded his public remarks with a sharp ideological attack on the political left, condemning their “fundamental moral flaw” of showing empathy for criminals but not for their victims. This final statement, consistent with his controversial past views on empathy, solidified his image as a figure increasingly at odds with liberal viewpoints as he stepped away from his governmental role.