Elon Musk is officially stepping down from his role as a “Special Government Employee” in the Trump administration, with the White House beginning his formal off-boarding on Wednesday night, according to senior officials.
Musk confirmed his departure on X, thanking President Donald Trump for the opportunity to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) task force.
“As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President @realDonaldTrump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending,” Musk posted, adding that the DOGE mission “will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government.”
Appointed shortly after Trump’s January 20 inauguration, Musk’s 130-day term was nearing its legal limit. While he is leaving the formal role, a White House official said Musk could remain involved as an unofficial adviser and may still attend high-level meetings.
Despite White House claims of an amicable departure, sources indicate rising tensions between Musk and senior officials.
The friction reportedly stemmed from Musk’s criticism of Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” — a central piece of the president’s legislative agenda — just a day before announcing his exit.
Still, Musk remained active in government affairs until his last day.
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard shared on X that Musk visited the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) on Wednesday to discuss technology and national security collaborations.
