Elon Musk Steps Down as DOGE Head: Trump Praises ‘Patriot’ Musk Amid Emotional Farewell | Top 10 Highlights
WASHINGTON D.C. – In a heartfelt moment at the White House on Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump bid farewell to Elon Musk as the Tesla CEO concluded his tenure as a Special Government Employee and head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk, who announced his departure earlier this week, was presented with a symbolic gold key to the White House during a press briefing held in the Oval Office.
President Trump commended Musk’s contributions, describing them as transformative for federal operations. “Elon has revolutionized how Washington functions,” Trump declared. Musk, in turn, assured he would remain available to support the administration in any capacity needed.
Here are the top 10 takeaways from the event:
1. ‘Elon is really not leaving’
Trump emphasized Musk’s ongoing influence, stating that while his formal role is ending, his presence will remain. “He’s going to be back and forth,” Trump said, suggesting Musk’s involvement with DOGE initiatives would continue behind the scenes.
2. ‘Elon accepted outrageous abuse’
In a strong show of support, Trump highlighted Musk’s resilience amid public scrutiny. “Despite leading one of the world’s most innovative companies, Elon faced relentless criticism because of his patriotism,” said Trump, referencing recent controversies including alleged drug use reports.
3. Major federal spending cuts
Trump detailed a list of expenditures slashed following DOGE’s recommendations, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. Among them:
- $101M in DEI contracts at the Department of Education
- $59M for hotel accommodations for undocumented immigrants
- $45M for DEI scholarships abroad
- $8M for transgender mice studies
Musk explained, “We combed through countless federal expenses, uncovering numerous inefficiencies — including millions in unused software licenses.”
4. ‘The beginning of DOGE’
Musk clarified his departure marks a new phase, not the end, for DOGE. “This is only the start. I believe we’re on the path to cutting a trillion dollars in waste and fraud,” he stated.
5. Continued advisory role
Even after stepping down, Musk confirmed he would remain an informal adviser. “Whenever the President needs my advice, I’ll be available,” he said. Trump added, “I hope so.”
6. On student immigration
Trump made clear the U.S. remains open to academic excellence, saying, “We welcome brilliant students, but not those causing disruptions.”
7. Tax legislation update
Discussing the proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill”, Trump assured it would extend the Trump-era tax cuts. “If not passed, taxes could rise by 68%,” he warned.
8. Focus on vocational education
Trump advocated for reinvesting in trade schools. “Training in mechanics and skilled trades is where our investment should go, not to bloated institutions like Harvard,” he said.
9. Appeals Court victory on tariffs
Celebrating a legal win, Trump commented on the lifting of a court stay that had limited executive power over tariffs, calling it “a restoration of what the Founders intended.”
10. Progress on Gaza and Iran
On foreign policy, Trump shared optimism about peace efforts in the Middle East. “There’s progress in Gaza, and I believe a peaceful deal with Iran is within reach.”
