Trump Grants Elon Musk Power to Oversee Federal Cost-Cutting
U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order giving billionaire Elon Musk’s unofficial Department of Government Efficiency the authority to direct federal agencies in cost-cutting efforts, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency
The order, issued Tuesday, instructs agencies to collaborate with Musk’s team on job cuts and hiring restrictions, limiting new hires to "essential positions," according to a White House summary.
Standing alongside Musk in the Oval Office, Trump praised his work despite public and legal controversy, with critics calling the move unconstitutional. He also urged Musk to take on further responsibilities.
Excluding sectors like national security, law enforcement, and immigration, the order aims to reduce the 2.2 million-strong federal workforce while bypassing Congress’ budgetary authority. Under the constitutional separation of powers, only Congress can alter spending once funds are allocated.
Musk stated his team is investigating federal workers' net worth, suggesting that unusually high wealth may indicate fraud.
“There are bureaucrats with salaries of a few hundred thousand dollars who somehow amassed tens of millions,” Musk said. “We’re curious where it came from.”
Critics argue Musk lacks the legal right to examine personal financial records without a court order, citing constitutional protections against unreasonable searches. Public and congressional protests have erupted over his access to government databases, including sensitive material.
