Trump struggles to keep Musk at DOGE amid rising frustrations

Washington D.C. – President Donald Trump expressed his continued support for Elon Musk on Thursday, saying he hopes the tech mogul remains on his team “as long as possible,” despite reports suggesting Musk may soon depart his role as a “special government employee” with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Trump made the comments during a conversation with reporters aboard Air Force One, following questions about the future of Musk’s tenure in the White House. A recent report from Politico had claimed that internal frustrations within Trump’s administration regarding Musk’s “unpredictability” and his potential political liabilities had led to discussions about his departure. The report hinted at Musk’s possible exit from DOGE, a special office created by Trump in January to streamline government functions.

“I like smart people, and he’s a smart person,” Trump said when asked about Musk’s tenure, adding that he personally liked the tech entrepreneur. “Elon is fantastic. He’s a patriot. He’s done a good job. I want him to stay as long as possible.” However, the president acknowledged that Musk’s time as a special government employee is limited by regulations, with Musk’s 130-day service period set to expire on May 30. Special government employees are restricted to serving no more than 130 days in a 365-day period.

Despite potential concerns over Musk’s future in the administration, Trump left the door open for an extended role for the billionaire. When asked if he would consider appointing Musk to a different post, Trump responded, “I would. I think Elon’s great,” while noting Musk has his own companies to manage. “But he also has a company to run, or a number of companies to run,” Trump added.

Musk’s role with DOGE was formalized following an executive order signed by Trump on Inauguration Day, January 20. The office’s goal is to reduce inefficiency within the federal government, a project Trump has emphasized as a key part of his administration. Musk’s team at DOGE has been involved in uncovering what Trump described as “something horrible” and “incredible” in their work, although the president declined to elaborate on those findings.

As for Musk’s potential exit, Trump suggested the transition could take a few months, as he praised Musk’s contributions to the initiative. He also noted that once Musk leaves, the “secretaries” within his cabinet would assume responsibility for the work Musk has been overseeing.

“Many of the employees working under Musk will find their way into full-time positions within federal agencies,” Trump added, hinting that DOGE’s restructuring efforts will continue even after Musk’s departure. The administration’s focus, Trump said, remains on “smart people” who can help improve the efficiency of government operations.