The Daily How Elon Musk Is Infiltrating Washington
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Feb 5, 2025 Jonathan Swan, a White House reporter for The New York Times, offers keen insights into Elon Musk's bold incursion into federal operations. The discussion covers Musk's controversial tactics that leave agencies in chaos, including his takeover of USAID. Swan reveals the tension between public service and private interests, while highlighting the growing mistrust towards bureaucratic norms. The podcast also dives into the ideological battles over USAID's budget, framed within a larger political agenda questioning 'woke' policies, ultimately illuminating the clash of technology and governance.
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Musk's Team Arrival
- Musk's team arrived at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, leaving a sticky note that read "DOGE" on a door.
- Young engineers, some in t-shirts and blazers, roamed the halls without security badges, marking the arrival of Musk's team.
Federal Employee Interviews and Resignation Offers
- Musk's allies interviewed federal employees, questioning their recent work and refusing to give their full names.
- An email, mirroring one Musk sent to Twitter employees, offered federal workers paid resignations through September.
Treasury Department Targeting
- Musk's team targeted the Treasury Department, focusing on the federal payment system.
- A top official resisted giving Musk access, was threatened, and then retired; Musk's team subsequently gained access.