Elon Musk expressed his enthusiasm for the changes to come during an event, while Vice President JD Vance chose not to comment. On a later occasion, during Trump’s inauguration at the U.S. Capitol, Musk held a prominent place in front of the new cabinet members of the president. Although the relationship between Musk and Trump may be fleeting due to their changing loyalties, Musk's power was evidenced when Trump established a special office for him within the White House.
President Trump announced that Elon Musk and his team would have office space for about 20 people in what has been referred to as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), in reference to Musk's favorite cryptocurrency. Musk now has an email address at the White House, and at least four people in each federal agency will assist in implementing cost-cutting efforts. During a speech at the Capitol One Arena, Musk made a gesture that some compared to a Nazi salute, while Trump promised to explore Mars.
A union representing federal employees sued the Trump administration alleging that DOGE violates a U.S. law from 1972 that requires controls on conflicts of interest and ideological balance. Musk was the only invited speaker of the president at a rally, highlighting the growing relationship between the two. At an event in the Capitol One Arena, Musk shared his ambition to send American astronauts to Mars for the first time.
Musk's first day in Washington was surrounded by controversy, including Scalise's comparison of Musk to Rosa Parks. Despite possible conflicts of interest due to his multiple businesses, Musk remains an influential figure. While there were criticisms about a gesture from Musk that some interpreted as a Nazi salute, the ADL considered it simply an expression of enthusiasm. Musk, who did not comment on it, has been the subject of criticism for his privileged position and alleged conflicts of interest.
Meanwhile, discussions continue in the scientific community about space exploration, with differing opinions on whether Mars should be prioritized over the Moon. The DOGE administration, where Musk will hold a position, will report directly to the White House Chief of Staff. Despite the criticisms and controversies, Musk's ambition to travel to Mars remains a central topic of discussion amid significant changes in Washington.
