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ASHINGTON — In a recent gathering at the Pentagon, Elon Musk, the visionary behind SpaceX and a prominent efficiency consultant for former President Donald Trump, voiced his readiness to contribute to the improvement of government functions. He engaged in discussions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding various new initiatives.
A segment aired by CNN showcased Musk departing from the meeting, during which he skillfully avoided inquiries about whether he had received classified information concerning China. Hegseth had previously announced the meeting, emphasizing discussions centered around “innovation, efficiencies & smarter production.”
Presently, the Pentagon is assessing which employees and programs to eliminate in order to meet budgetary reductions of 5% to 8%. However, there is increasing alarm among lawmakers and oversight committees regarding Musk’s role in Pentagon deliberations, particularly given that SpaceX benefits from significant federal contracts.
Musk plays a crucial role in the Department of Government Efficiency, significantly influencing the Trump administration’s agenda to streamline government operations. His assertive tactics involving layoffs and program terminations have faced backlash from some legislators and constituents, while supporters of the Republican administration have lauded his approach.
A senior official from the Defense Department revealed to journalists that approximately 50,000 to 60,000 civilian positions are anticipated to be cut as part of these budgetary reforms.
In a statement posted on Musk’s platform, Hegseth reassured that their discussions were “NOT about ‘top secret China war plans,’” countering assertions made by a newspaper report.
