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Mass Resignations and Legal Challenges Undermine Musk-Led Federal Overhaul

Elon Musk’s aggressive cost-cutting efforts in the federal government face backlash from civil servants, courts, and even some Trump administration officials.

Elon Musk listens to President Donald Trump speak in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 11, 2025.
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Overview

  • Over 20 members of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) resigned, citing ethical concerns over dismantling public services and potential security risks tied to Musk's methods.
  • Musk's directive requiring federal employees to justify their weekly productivity has drawn criticism, with some officials refusing to comply and courts blocking related administrative actions.
  • Reports suggest artificial intelligence is being used to evaluate the necessity of federal jobs, raising concerns about bias and errors in decision-making processes.
  • Nearly 40% of federal contracts terminated under the DOGE program reportedly yield no cost savings, undermining claims of fiscal efficiency.
  • The backlash includes viral town hall meetings, legal challenges, and growing discontent among Republican lawmakers who fear political fallout from Musk's controversial approach.