On Friday, May 30th, marked the day when American billionaire Elon Musk bid farewell to his leadership role at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the United States. He and President Trump attended an event held at the White House together.
President Trump praised Musk’s work at DOGE in the Oval Office of the White House. “Elon has made tremendous changes to the old ways of Washington,” the President said. Trump added that Musk is one of the greatest business leaders and innovators, serving his brilliance for “our country, and we are very grateful.”
The President then presented Musk with a gift, a White House golden key, as a reward for his service as a special government employee.
Trump emphasized that this was a special gift, “very special, I give it only to very special people, I have given a few, but they are for very special people.”
“I present it (the golden key) to Elon, as a token of our country’s gratitude to him,” the President said, “Thank you very much.”
Musk expressed his gratitude for receiving this accolade. He stated, “I will continue to visit here and serve as a friend and advisor to the President.”
He then took some time to admire the Oval Office, especially the 24k gold-plated eagle on the ceiling.
President Trump shared on his social media platform, Truth Social, that Friday was Musk’s “last day.”
Musk announced on Wednesday, May 28th, that he would end his term as a special government employee in the Trump administration. He stated that the reform work at DOGE would continue and refocus on business operations, bringing some relief to Tesla investors.
Musk led DOGE as a “special government employee” with a term limit of 130 days, starting on January 20th and ending at the end of May.
Since the Trump administration took office in January, Musk has been leading DOGE, driving federal agency reforms. During his term, he actively promoted personnel streamlining, organizational consolidation, data integration, and measures to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenses. However, this department has also sparked controversy, with Musk becoming a target for some and Tesla, under his leadership, facing criticism.
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated on Thursday, May 29th, that cabinet members have been closely collaborating with Musk and will continue to work with DOGE employees after Musk steps down.
Vice President Pence reflected on his relationship with Musk, calling the tech billionaire a “very good friend.”
Pence shared during an interview with Newsmax on Thursday evening, “Elon did become a very good friend during the campaign, of course during his time in Washington.”
“He and his kids have been to our home, you know, had dinner with our kids, so we are close.” Pence said.
The Vice President also praised Musk’s efforts in leading DOGE. He later refuted media claims that Musk’s influence in Washington was diminishing.