Elon Musk, serving as a special government employee in the Trump administration, donned symbolic hats during what might have been his last Cabinet meeting, underscoring his role in attempting to cut federal spending through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite a lighthearted send-off, Musk's tenure was marked by clashes with other Cabinet members and a failure to meet his ambitious $2 trillion spending cut goal, achieving only $160 billion instead, a figure that remains disputed. His involvement in the administration has coincided with a significant 71% drop in Tesla's net income and vandalism against his dealerships, prompting Musk to consider stepping back to focus more on Tesla. Tensions with other Cabinet members, such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, highlighted disagreements over authority and staffing decisions, though both offered some praise for his contributions. Trump expressed continued support for Musk and DOGE's mission, while Musk complimented the administration, leaving open the question of his future involvement in government affairs.

Elon Musk attended what might have been his last Cabinet meeting wearing two hats representing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Gulf of America, symbolizing his dual roles and efforts to reduce government spending.

Musk's tenure in the Trump administration has been tumultuous, highlighted by private clashes with other Cabinet members over spending cuts, and falling short of his ambitious goal to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion, achieving only $160 billion.

The involvement with the administration has impacted Musk's personal and professional life, with Tesla reporting a 71% drop in net income and facing vandalism against its dealerships, prompting Musk to consider stepping back from his government role.

Conflicts with Cabinet members such as Marco Rubio and Scott Bessent have arisen, centering on authority and staffing decisions, with Musk and Rubio exchanging accusations of dishonesty and Bessent and Musk having a public altercation over IRS leadership.

Despite the controversies, Trump praised Musk's contributions and invited him to stay as long as he wished, while Musk and others acknowledged the benefits and efficiencies achieved under DOGE, although the long-term future of Musk's involvement remains uncertain.

Musk's presence in the administration has been prominent, often accompanying Trump on official engagements, and Trump's public support contrasts with the mixed feelings from other Cabinet members about Musk's influence and methods.

The future of DOGE's efforts to cut costs and increase efficiency is still a priority for Trump, who indicated optimism that their achievements could significantly exceed the reported $160 billion, regardless of Musk's continued involvement.