A growing power struggle has emerged within the Trump administration as Elon Musk pushes forward with his controversial reforms under the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Many Trump-appointed Cabinet members are resisting Musk’s directives, leading to an internal battle over control of the federal workforce. At the center of the conflict is Musk’s demand for federal employees to justify their work, a move that has sparked strong opposition across multiple government agencies.
Internal Rebellion: Federal Agencies Push Back
Over the past several days, more than a dozen federal agencies have pushed back against Musk’s directive, telling employees they do not need to comply. The order, which required federal workers to submit a weekly report detailing their accomplishments, was seen by many officials as unnecessary and disruptive.
This resistance marks the most significant internal rejection of DOGE’s measures since its creation. Many Trump-appointed Cabinet members are now seeking to regain control over their respective agencies, challenging Musk’s aggressive push to reshape the federal workforce without their direct approval.
Musk’s Response: A Second Ultimatum and More Layoffs
Despite the pushback, Musk is refusing to back down. He has publicly condemned those resisting his directives, calling for federal employees to be issued a second order to justify their work. His DOGE team is also preparing for another wave of sweeping layoffs and cuts to federal grants and spending.
According to sources within the government, Musk’s approach is becoming increasingly aggressive. He aims to continue reducing what he sees as unnecessary bureaucratic positions while slashing federal spending. However, his moves have created tension not just with federal employees but also with high-ranking Trump administration officials who fear losing control over their departments.
The Battle for Control Within the Trump Administration
The divide between Musk and Trump’s Cabinet highlights a deeper conflict within the administration. While Trump has supported Musk’s efficiency measures, many of his own officials are wary of DOGE’s unchecked influence. Some agencies have reportedly refused to implement DOGE’s directives without explicit approval from their department heads.
Musk, however, has continued to bypass traditional decision-making processes, using his influence and public platform to pressure agencies into compliance. His willingness to directly challenge Cabinet members has further fueled tensions, raising questions about how much control he truly holds over the administration’s workforce policies.
