Trump vs Musk? Federal Workers Unconvinced He'll Take Action: 'If They Don't Cut, Elon will, Comments Show Who's Really In Charge'

Bibhu Pattnaik

March 08, 2025

President Donald Trump has reportedly limited the authority of his billionaire advisor, Elon Musk, to dismiss federal employees. This development has stirred skepticism among the workforce and political circles.

What Happened: According to a report, Trump privately communicated to his Cabinet that they have the power over their departments, not Musk. This potential shift could mark a significant change in the Trump-Musk alliance.

However, the federal workforce remains uncertain due to weeks of inconsistent and contradictory directives, reports the Politico.

David Casserly, an employee at the Department of Labor, voiced his skepticism, saying, “I’ll believe it when I see it.” The news of the Cabinet meeting has spurred widespread speculation about Trump’s real intentions, particularly in the face of increasing legal and political scrutiny.

Some have interpreted Trump’s comments as an attempt at “damage control” after he announced that Musk is the “head” of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) during his joint address to Congress.

Also Read: Elon Musk Claims Rival Billionaire Wants to ‘Destroy’ Trump To Suppress Jeffrey Epstein Client List

This statement could potentially lead to legal complications, as the White House had previously argued in court that Musk was not the DOGE leader and had no authority to make distinct policy decisions, reports the outlet.

Despite the skepticism, Trump’s comments have ignited hope among Democratic lawmakers, who are eager to see Musk’s influence curtailed and the drastic cuts to the federal workforce reversed.

A State Department official told the outlet. "I don't think it's real. The â€˜if they don't cut, Elon will' comments show who's really in charge."

Why It Matters: The recent development is a stark contrast to the earlier alliance between Trump and Musk. The move to limit Musk’s authority over federal employees could potentially alter the dynamics within the Trump administration.

The skepticism among the workforce and political circles underscores the uncertainty surrounding this decision. The potential legal implications of Trump’s previous statements about Musk’s role in the DOGE further complicate the situation.

As the story unfolds, the impact of this decision on the federal workforce and the political landscape remains to be seen.

Crypto Does WHAT to Retirement Accounts? - Ad

Elon + Nvidia + ????? - Ad

Elon's Greatest Invention... Hidden in South Memphis? - Ad

The Trump administration is halting a $1 billion program that helps preserve affordable housing, threatening projects that keep tens of thousands of units livable for low-income Americans, according to a document obtained by The Associated Press.

Edmunds: 2025 Honda CR-V vs. 2025 Subaru Forester

The is a redesigned model, but Subaru didn’t exactly stray from the formula of the last generation. It’s still a boxy small SUV with great visibility, adventure-ready versatility, and a no-nonsense approach to interior design. Its many upgrades for 2025 help keep it competitive, but how does it fare against the class best?

The $20 Trillion Secret of Room 3330

The $20 Trillion Secret of Room 3330 - Ad

Developed by the U.S. military 79 years ago, this controversial technology is about to change American life forever: Elon Musk has already funneled $6 billion to resurrect this covert project -- and the companies involved are minting 10,000 millionaires every week [Goldman Sachs].

Who is Mark Carney, the next prime minister of Canada?

TORONTO (AP) — Former central banker Mark Carney will become Canada’s next prime minister after a Liberal Party leadership vote in a landslide.

Universities are facing big cuts to research funding. At Duke, it's a time for 'damage control'

DURHAM, N.C. (AP) — Facing the potential loss of hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding, Duke University is preparing for the worst.

Trump's Final Betrayal

Trump's Final Betrayal - Ad

Exposed: the shocking economic plot to "reset" the U.S. economy and redistribute trillions of dollars in wealth.

Family Offices Embrace Alternative Investment Funds To Protect Wealth In 2025

Family offices are increasingly investing in AIFs to diversify risk and protect wealth in volatile markets. Advisors should focus on expertise and customization to meet this demand.

'Horrific Report': Economists Warn Consumer Confidence Collapse Signals Economic Trouble

U of Michigan consumer confidence survey shows rapid decrease amid high inflation expectations, economists warn of bad omen for US economy.

Elon Musk Drops Stunning Bombshell?

Elon Musk Drops Stunning Bombshell? - Ad

Behind closed doors, Musk revealed a game-changing breakthrough that could shake the tech world & crush major companies. Why is no one talking about it? Luckily, we had a man on the inside - watch now to see the leaked details & how to profit!

Jim Cramer Says Airbnb 'Best Of Crop' From 'Wild Times' IPOs

TV host Jim Cramer said Monday on Twitter that Airbnb Inc (NASDAQ: ABNB) “might be the best of that crop of companies that came public during those wild times.”

What's Going On With Kohl's Stock Wednesday?

Kohl's stock may be moving on continued weakness after the company reported fourth-quarter financial results and issued guidance on Tuesday.

Trump's Next Move

Trump's Next Move - Ad

First it was MAGA, then MAHA, now MARA. New video reveals what Trump's greatest plan yet. Presidential insider exposes shocking plot to reshape U.S. economy.

Hackers Expose Customer Data - Retail Pharmacy Giant Paying $6.8M in Compensation

Retail pharmacy giant Rite Aid has agreed to pay $6.8 million to its customers following a significant data breach.

Business News Digest

AP Business Digest

Elon Musk's New Project... Revealed

Elon Musk's New Project... Revealed - Ad

You won't believe what Elon Musk is hiding... Inside this facility in the middle of an industrial zone of Memphis, right next to a decommissioned coal plant.

Kentucky bourbon makers fear becoming 'collateral damage' in Trump's trade war

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — With a new distillery set to open soon, the makers of Brough Brothers bourbon in Kentucky were ready to put their business plan into action. They were looking to ramp up whiskey production to break into lucrative new markets in Canada and Europe.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang discusses AI's future at GTC 2025

Nvidia founder Jensen Huang kicked off the company's artificial intelligence developer conference on Tuesday by telling a crowd of thousands that AI is going through “an inflection point.”

Warren Buffett Is Making a Huge Bet on Oil Buying Occidental Petroleum Stock

Warren Buffett Is Making a Huge Bet on Oil Buying Occidental Petroleum Stock - Ad

I like the move, but I hate the dividend...Occidental only pays a 1.3% dividend. That's why I prefer this oil ETF that has a 21% payout...Delivered to you every single month.

Tesla Out, Ford In: City Of Baltimore Goes 'In A Different Direction' Reversing EV Deal From 2024

Tesla is losing an EV city fleet deal in Baltimore to Ford. A look at what happened and how politics may have factored into the decision.

Donald Trump's 'The Apprentice' Reality Show Gets Streaming Home, Here's Where You Can Watch Him Tell People They're Fired

On "The Apprentice," contestants competed to win a job with Trump and $250,000 salary. The people who lost were famously told, "You're fired."

The Election Is Over, but the Uncertainty Is Just Beginning.

The Election Is Over, but the Uncertainty Is Just Beginning. - Ad

With sweeping policy changes, tax hikes on the horizon, and an unstable global economy, investors are in uncharted territory. It's times like these that destroy traditional portfolios. But there's a strategy that delivers consistent, reliable income month after month--even when the markets are in turmoil.

Critics warn staff cuts at federal agencies overseeing US dams could put public safety at risk

COULEE DAM, Wash. (AP) — Trump administration workforce cuts at federal agencies overseeing U.S. dams are threatening their ability to provide reliable electricity, supply farmers with water and protect communities from floods, employees and industry experts warn.

Explainer: What's a recession and why is rising anxiety about it roiling markets?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Stock markets , consumers and businesses have started to , and economists are marking down their estimates for growth this year, with some even seeing rising odds of a recession.

New "Trump" Currency Proposed in DC

New "Trump" Currency Proposed in DC - Ad

A new Executive Order could unlock a $150 trillion hidden asset--and spark a historic boom in one overlooked corner of the market. Jim Rickards reveals the full story--before it hits front-page news. Watch now before it's too late!

Mineralys Therapeutics Unveils Positive Data From Two Trials For Hypertension Drug Candidate

Mineralys Therapeutics' lorundrostat met key Phase 3 and Phase 2 trial endpoints for hypertension, showing significant blood pressure reductions and a strong safety profile.

Honduras holds primaries as voter frustration simmers over security and the economy

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras (AP) — Voters in Honduras will select candidates from the three main parties Sunday to compete in November’s general election for the presidency in a country that remains deeply polarized, but skeptical of leaders from the left and right who have failed to deliver on improving security and the economy.

The Billionaire Bet That Could Change Uranium Forever

The Billionaire Bet That Could Change Uranium Forever - Ad

The world's richest investors--Gates, Bezos, Altman--are pouring billions into nuclear energy. With uranium demand surging, one tiny uranium junior could potentially be the next big winner.

Donald Trump's Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP Reserve Is 'Imperfect' But Bullish, Says Bitwise's Matt Hougan

Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan on Wednesday that despite a bumpy rollout, President Donald Trump's strategic crypto reserve announcement remains bullish for the market, a vi

Clean Energy Stocks Face Policy Risks, But JP Morgan Sees Long-Term Upside In These Names

JP Morgan analyst Mark Strouse shares insights on clean energy sector, with strong power demand, weak residential solar sector, and potential policy changes as key catalysts. Favors companies with US manufacturing, diversified markets, and long-term cash flow visibility.

The 2025 'Trump Shock' [401K Owners Stunned]

The 2025 'Trump Shock' [401K Owners Stunned] - Ad

Trump's Gold Reset? A massive dollar overhaul could be coming! Insiders say Trump may return America to the gold standard--sending gold prices soaring. He's been stockpiling gold for decades... should you? Discover how to legally move funds from your IRA & 401(k) into gold tax-free!

Dollar General Q4 Earnings Preview: Revenue, Profit Margins, Tariffs In The Spotlight

Dollar General is set to release its fourth-quarter financial results ahead of Thursday's opening bell. Here's a look at what to expect in the report.

3 ETFs With Super Micro Computers Exposure, Enjoy AI Surge

Super Micro (NASDAQ: SMCI) is a top player in AI infrastructure with growing demand and potential for investors. ETFs like SMH, BOTZ and IGV can benefit from its growth.

A Tiny Uranium Stock Positioned for a Big Breakout

A Tiny Uranium Stock Positioned for a Big Breakout - Ad

A junior miner with high-grade uranium assets in Canada's Athabasca Basin and Central Mineral Belt is making moves. Plans are in motion, and the uranium market is heating up. Could this be the next UEC?

How to roll over an old 401(k)

Old are a little like the old clothes in the back of your closet. You know you should do something about them, but there they sit, mostly out of sight and mind.

In his own words: Trump takes credit for stock market rises but casts aside blame for sell-off

WASHINGTON (AP) — President in recent days has dismissed and brushed aside the stock market sell-off, going so far as to say, “You can’t really watch the stock market." That's a new message from a leader who has frequently pointed to the market's ups and downs as a reflection of himself and his activities, even when he was not in power.

Buffett's $29B Oil Bet--Here's How to Earn 22% Yields Monthly

Buffett's $29B Oil Bet--Here's How to Earn 22% Yields Monthly - Ad

Buffett is loading up on oil stocks--10% of his portfolio is now in energy. But while he earns modest dividends, we've found an ETF yielding 22% annually with monthly payouts! Get the full details now--before the next oil surge!

How Trump justifies his tariffs - from budget balancing to protecting 'the soul' of America

WASHINGTON (AP) — To , “tariff” is more than “the most beautiful word in the dictionary,” something he says often.

Tesla Stock Pares Early Losses, Rises 6.4% After Key Signal

A significant trading signal occurred for Tesla stock, as it demonstrated a Power Inflow at $222.68, after which TSLA rose up to 6.4%.

Elon Musk Refuses to Pay a Tesla Dividend.

Elon Musk Refuses to Pay a Tesla Dividend. - Ad

But thanks to a new investment breakthrough...You could start collecting big checks on Tesla stock--without trading options, without waiting years, and without buying more shares. It's all thanks to my Tesla strategy that turns the company into a cash machine...Without waiting for Elon to pay a single dividend.

Musk's Starlink and Bharti Airtel sign deal to explore bringing satellite internet to India

NEW DELHI (AP) — Indian telecom operator Bharti Airtel said Tuesday it has signed a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink to explore providing the U.S. satellite internet giant’s services to customers in India, depending on government approval.

Trending Now