US President Donald Trump has expressed his confidence in Elon Musk, stating that he will task the billionaire with uncovering fraud and making necessary cuts in the US military.
The president, who has already enlisted Musk’s help in cutting government costs, said the investigation would extend to multiple federal agencies, including the Department of Education.
Speaking to Fox News anchor Bret Baier, Trump praised Musk’s role in streamlining government operations. “I’ve had great help with Elon Musk. He’s been terrific,” he said.
The SpaceX and Tesla CEO has been leading efforts under the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which aims to reduce federal spending by cutting programs, eliminating regulations, and dismissing federal employees.
Trump emphasised the action, asserting that Musk’s review would uncover massive financial mismanagement. “We’re going to find billions, hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud and abuse,” he said.
He also noted that Musk’s work would soon expand beyond military spending, stating, “Maybe in the next 24 hours, he’s going to check the Department for Education. He’s going to find the same thing.”
However, concerns have been raised over Musk’s growing influence and access to sensitive government systems. Some critics argue that his involvement in federal audits could pose security risks. Despite this, Trump has remained firm in his support, dismissing any suggestion that Musk stands to gain personally. “Trust Elon? He’s not gaining anything. In fact, I wonder how he can devote the time to it—he’s so into it,” Trump said.
The announcement follows news that US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem will also collaborate with Musk to enhance government efficiency. “We’re working with them at the president’s direction to find what we can do to make our department much more efficient,” Noem said in an interview with CNN.
Describing the initiative as a sweeping audit of the federal government, Trump framed the effort as a fulfilment of his campaign promises. “You know, the people elected me on that,” he said.
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