Overview

• Elon Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent engaged in a loud argument in the West Wing over the appointment of the IRS acting commissioner, with witnesses describing the scene as chaotic.
• The dispute stemmed from Musk's support for Gary Shapley as acting IRS commissioner, while Bessent backed his deputy, Michael Faulkender, who was ultimately appointed by President Trump.
• During the confrontation, Bessent criticized Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) for failing to deliver on promised budget cuts, while Musk accused Bessent of being a 'Soros agent.'
• White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed the clash, calling it part of a healthy policy debate and emphasizing that President Trump remains the ultimate decision-maker.
• Musk announced plans to significantly reduce his involvement with DOGE next month, as Tesla investors reacted positively to his decision to refocus on his business ventures.