Trump: Musk Needs White House Approval for Any Actions

President Donald Trump stated Monday that billionaire tech entrepreneur Elon Musk cannot take any actions without White House approval, signaling that if Musk’s opinions conflict with the administration, he will be blocked from acting.

Trump made the remarks when asked about Musk’s access to payment systems at the Treasury Department, after officials from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) requested access to the financial systems used to distribute federal funds.

“He’s got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good, if we agree with him, and it’s only if we agree with him,” Trump said from the Oval Office.

Trump emphasized that Musk’s authority is limited by the administration’s oversight. “He can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval,” he stated.

“We’ll give him the approval when appropriate, and where not appropriate, we won’t. But he reports in, and it’s something that he feels very strongly about,” the president continued. “If there’s conflict, then we won’t let him get near it.”

Trump acknowledged Musk’s leadership and his role in streamlining government operations but reiterated that Musk’s actions will be constrained if they conflict with the administration’s policies.

“Where we think there’s a conflict or if there’s a problem, we won’t let him go near it,” Trump said.

The president further assured that he remains fully in control of decision-making. “If there was something that didn’t have my OK, I’d let you know about it very fast,” he said.

Trump also mentioned that Musk is surrounded by a talented team and noted that other influential figures are also involved in White House discussions. He specifically mentioned media mogul Rupert Murdoch and Oracle Chief Technology Officer Larry Ellison, both of whom were present during the conversation.

Earlier on Monday, Musk stated that he and Trump had “agreed” to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This announcement came after Trump declared that his administration would remove “lunatics” from the agency before making a final decision on its future.

The potential dismantling of USAID reflects Trump’s broader efforts to reshape federal agencies and reduce government spending. Musk, known for his aggressive cost-cutting strategies in the private sector, has positioned himself as an advocate for similar reductions in federal operations.

However, Trump made it clear that while he values Musk’s insights, he will not always follow his recommendations regarding budget cuts.

“I think Elon is doing a good job. He’s a big cost-cutter,” Trump said. “Sometimes we won’t agree with it, and we’ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he’s doing a great job. He’s a smart guy. Very smart. And he’s very much into cutting the budget of our federal budget.”

Trump’s comments underscore Musk’s influence in shaping government efficiency strategies while reaffirming that ultimate authority remains with the administration.

The relationship between Trump and Musk has been characterized by mutual respect but occasional disagreements over policy decisions. While Musk has been supportive of certain government reforms, Trump has consistently maintained that any significant changes will require his direct approval.

Musk’s involvement in federal decision-making has drawn attention due to his high-profile leadership in the technology and space industries. His role in advising the administration on cost-cutting measures has sparked both praise and criticism, with some viewing him as an asset in reducing government waste while others question the extent of his influence.

The Trump administration’s approach to government restructuring, including Musk’s role, is expected to remain a major topic of discussion. As Trump moves forward with plans to reassess federal agencies and spending, the dynamic between Musk and the White House will likely continue to evolve.

With Musk advocating for efficiency and Trump maintaining control over final decisions, their collaboration represents a unique intersection of business leadership and political governance. However, as Trump has made clear, Musk will not have the freedom to act independently.

The president’s remarks serve as a reminder that while Musk plays a role in shaping policies, his influence is limited by White House oversight. Whether this balance will lead to significant government reforms or create further tensions within the administration remains to be seen.