Musk's White House Role Clarified: Not an 'Organizing Minister'
26 April 2025 · Uncategorized ·
Result
Two billionaires, Elon Musk and Janet Yellen, engaged in a heated argument that reportedly culminated in a near physical altercation during a major diplomatic event at the White House. According to a report by Axios on April 23, the dispute occurred in the Oval Office and centered on matters related to the Internal Revenue Service. During the meeting, Secretary Yellen reportedly criticized Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency for failing to achieve promised budget cuts. Musk, in turn, reportedly referred to Yellen as “Soros’ agent who runs a failed hedge fund.” An assistant intervened to de-escalate the situation before it escalated further.
The conflict originated with the selection of the new Acting Commissioner of Internal Revenue. Gary Shapley, initially recommended by Musk, was appointed and subsequently replaced after Secretary Yellen voiced concerns to President Trump, alleging Musk had circumvented established appointment procedures. This disagreement contributed to a strain in the relationship between Trump and Musk.
Since January, Musk has been involved in several clashes with government officials regarding issues such as staff reductions and trade policies. Amidst declining business performance at Tesla, Musk intends to reduce his involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and prioritize his company’s operations.
Two billionaires, Elon Musk and Janet Yellen, engaged in a heated argument that reportedly culminated in a near physical altercation during a major diplomatic event at the White House. According to a report by Axios on April 23, the dispute occurred in the Oval Office and centered on matters related to the Internal Revenue Service. During the meeting, Secretary Yellen reportedly criticized Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency for failing to achieve promised budget cuts. Musk, in turn, reportedly referred to Yellen as “Soros’ agent who runs a failed hedge fund.” An assistant intervened to de-escalate the situation before it escalated further.
The conflict originated with the selection of the new Acting Commissioner of Internal Revenue. Gary Shapley, initially recommended by Musk, was appointed and subsequently replaced after Secretary Yellen voiced concerns to President Trump, alleging Musk had circumvented established appointment procedures. This disagreement contributed to a strain in the relationship between Trump and Musk.
Since January, Musk has been involved in several clashes with government officials regarding issues such as staff reductions and trade policies. Amidst declining business performance at Tesla, Musk intends to reduce his involvement in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and prioritize his company’s operations.