What does Elon Musk get out of remaking the government?
Feb 4, 2025
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Zoe Schiffer, Director of Business and Industry at Wired and author of 'Extremely Hardcore Inside Elon Musk's Twitter,' dives deep into Elon Musk's controversial influence on the federal government. She discusses Musk's push to shrink the federal workforce and the tension it creates with legislators. The conversation unveils Musk's shifting political beliefs and ambitions, along with the implications of his access to critical government systems. Schiffer highlights the potential risks of having a billionaire hold such power in shaping policies that may benefit his business interests.
Elon Musk's leadership in the Department of Government Efficiency aims to streamline federal operations by reducing employee numbers and accessing sensitive systems.
His involvement with the government reflects a strategic shift influenced by personal ambition, ideological changes, and potential conflicts of interest that could benefit his businesses.
Deep dives
Elon Musk's Role in Government Efficiency
Elon Musk, as head of the Department of Government Efficiency, is making significant changes within the federal government by accessing sensitive payment systems and pushing for a reduction in federal employees. This initiative, created by executive order during Donald Trump's second term, aims to streamline government operations, which has drawn criticism from various political figures. Critics, including Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer, express concerns that Musk's involvement amounts to an unelected takeover with potential for rampant corruption and chaos in the bureaucracy. Supporters argue that Musk, having garnered interest from Republican leaders, could bring much-needed efficiency and management skills to a bloated federal system.
Motivation Behind Musk's Political Involvement
Musk's burgeoning political role seems motivated by a mix of personal ambition and a desire to address what he perceives as existential threats facing humanity. His transition from moderate Democrat to a key ally of Trump reflects a response to the political climate, with significant events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, acting as catalysts for his shift in ideology. Observers note that Musk's involvement not only serves his political interests but also positions him to influence governmental contracts that can benefit his businesses. The potential for conflicts of interest raises concerns, especially with Musk's experience in navigating investigations linked to his companies while gaining unprecedented power within the government.
In Washington these days, Elon Musk seems to be everywhere.
In the 15 days Donald Trump has been back in the White House, Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency have been moving to change every corner of the federal government.
The billionaire entrepreneur and his team have gained access to a sensitive government payment system in the Treasury Department.
They're pushing to drastically reduce the number of federal employees. How did the world's richest man come to have such a big role in the federal government?
And why does he want it?
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