Elon Musk’s ambitious pledge to save $2 trillion for the U.S. government came to a rather unceremonious end in the Oval Office, as the tech mogul concluded his 138-day stint as a “special government employee.” His Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) ultimately failed to meet its lofty financial targets, leading to widespread disillusionment and a noticeable dip in his public standing.
President Trump, despite the perceived shortcomings, orchestrated a highly unusual farewell, dedicating the briefing to praising Musk’s contributions. The president’s effusive remarks, however, stood in stark contrast to the growing public resentment towards Musk’s aggressive tactics and the reported decline in his business empire’s stock, particularly Tesla. The sense of unfulfilled promise hung heavy in the air.
The departure was further complicated by a prominent news report detailing alleged drug use by Musk and his criticism of a new tax bill. While Trump quickly dismissed the news organization, Musk conspicuously avoided addressing the substantive allegations, prompting further speculation and reinforcing the narrative of a controversial figure leaving under a cloud of scrutiny.
Perhaps the most visually striking element of the briefing was Musk’s visible black eye, which he lightheartedly attributed to playful roughhousing with his young son. This seemingly minor injury became a curious metaphor for the larger bruises his reputation and business empire had sustained during his brief, tumultuous foray into the heart of the Trump administration. His final, characteristic broadside against the left underscored his polarizing nature.
From $2 Trillion Promise to Black Eye: Musk’s Tumultuous DC Exit
