Overview

• Elon Musk and Scott Bessent engaged in a loud shouting match in the West Wing over the appointment of an IRS commissioner, with President Trump nearby.
• The dispute stemmed from Musk pushing for Gary Shapley as acting IRS commissioner, while Bessent preferred his deputy, Michael Faulkender, who was ultimately appointed by Trump.
• Witnesses described the confrontation as intense, with insults exchanged and an aide stepping in to separate the two men.
• White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized the altercation as part of a 'healthy debate process,' emphasizing Trump's role as the ultimate decision-maker.
• Musk has signaled plans to reduce his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency, though broader tensions over his reform agenda remain unresolved.