Elon Musk’s role limited to advisory amid layoff concerns

During Thursday's cabinet meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump clarified that Elon Musk has the right to make recommendations regarding employment reductions in departments, but cannot make decisions independently. This information was provided by the "Politico" website. Musk, present at the meeting, agreed with the president.

The meeting was convened following a series of mass layoffs in government institutions, which sparked protests and lawsuits. Criticism came from both the Democratic Party and some Republicans. According to "The Guardian," Musk, who heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), emphasized in private conversations with politicians that the final decisions on layoffs are up to federal agencies.

"Politico" points out that Trump's speech was a response to Republican concerns about Musk's undue influence on federal agencies. The billionaire had not been elected or confirmed by Congress, which raised controversies. The president stressed that Musk does not have more power than other White House advisors and can only advise the president and convey his directives.

Numerous lawsuits concerning DOGE focus on Musk's access to sensitive data and his influence on government decisions. On Wednesday, another lawsuit was filed, accusing Musk of uncontrolled ravaging of the federal government. The government argues that Musk is not a formal employee or administrator of DOGE, which may aid the Trump administration in defending itself in court.

The position that formal agency authorities, not Musk, make the final personnel and substantive decisions could be crucial in court rulings. "Politico" notes that this approach might protect the administration from losing in court.