Up First from NPR cover image

Up First from NPR

Limiting Musk's Powers; VA Employees On DOGE Emails; No Cure For Long COVID

Mar 8, 2025
President Trump distances himself from Elon Musk's staffing influence, igniting a debate over power dynamics. VA employees express frustration about mandatory DOGE emails, revealing the tension within federal workplaces. On a different front, long COVID remains a pressing issue, with ongoing research and advocacy efforts highlighting the struggle for effective treatments. The complexities of this condition are explored, underlining the need for more funding and clinical trials.
15:24

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Elon Musk's influence over staffing decisions has created tension with Trump’s cabinet members, leading to significant federal position cuts.
  • Veterans Health Administration employees voice frustration over unnecessary weekly reporting demands that detract from their patient care responsibilities.

Deep dives

Musk's Influence on Federal Staffing Decisions

President Trump has stated that his cabinet secretaries will be the ones making staffing decisions, though it appears that Elon Musk's influence continues to persist. Reports indicate ongoing clashes between Musk and cabinet members, particularly regarding staffing cuts and diversity initiatives. While Trump has said he wants to see good people retained, there have already been significant reductions in federal positions, which could impact agency effectiveness. The political implications of these cuts are uncertain, especially among congressional Republicans, as many workers affected are constituents in their states.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode