Overview

• Elon Musk confirmed he will significantly reduce his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency starting in May, while maintaining a limited one-to-two-day weekly commitment through the end of the Trump administration's term.
• Tesla reported a 71% drop in first-quarter profits, prompting Musk to shift focus back to the company, which saw a rise in its stock price following the announcement.
• DOGE claims to have saved $160 billion in taxpayer funds, but independent experts dispute this figure, estimating verified cuts closer to $60 billion and questioning the agency's long-term viability without Musk's daily leadership.
• Musk's high-profile government role has drawn sharp criticism, vandalism, and protests, damaging Tesla's public image and contributing to declining sales and brand perception.
• Analysts suggest Musk's reduced political involvement could allow him to stabilize Tesla and its future projects, though his reputation and businesses face ongoing challenges from his polarizing political alignment.