The tech magnate Elon Musk and the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, were involved in a tense exchange during a cabinet meeting at the White House, where President Donald Trump tried to mediate amid the rising tensions within his government team.
The confrontation began when Musk criticized Rubio for not having significantly reduced his workforce, insinuating that the only layoff he had made was of an official from the Government Efficiency Agency (DOGE), under Musk's own control.
Rubio, visibly annoyed, responded sarcastically, asking if Musk intended for him to rehire over 1,500 State Department officials just to fire them publicly again. He also defended his management, stating that his team was effectively reorganizing the department.
According to The New York Times, as the discussion intensified, Trump observed the scene without intervening, until he finally came to Rubio's defense, acknowledging that his position involved numerous responsibilities and constant travel.
However, the president reiterated his support for Musk's strategy to reduce costs and layoffs in management, although he urged taking a more strategic approach, comparing the new phase of the plan to the use of a "scalpel" instead of a "hatchet."
This clash was just one of several tense moments during the meeting. Musk also clashed with the Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, over layoffs at the Federal Aviation Administration, and with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Doug Collins, regarding cuts that would impact thousands of veterans.
Despite the controversy, the White House and cabinet officials attempted to downplay the incident, highlighting the meeting as a “productive” discussion.
Although Musk remains one of Trump's key financial allies, his growing influence and radical methods have caused discomfort among several cabinet members. The meeting revealed internal tensions within the president's team and suggests that the balance of power in the administration is still in dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions about the confrontation between Elon Musk and Marco Rubio in Trump's cabinet
Why did the confrontation between Elon Musk and Marco Rubio occur?
The confrontation arose because Musk criticized Rubio for not having significantly reduced his staff, implying that the only dismissal made was of an official under Musk's control. Rubio responded visibly upset, defending his management and assuring that his team was efficiently reorganizing the department.
What was Donald Trump's position during the clash between Musk and Rubio?
Donald Trump observed the confrontation without initially intervening, but he eventually defended Rubio, acknowledging the responsibilities of his position. Trump reiterated his support for Musk's strategy to reduce costs and layoffs, although he urged for a more strategic approach, comparing it to the use of a "scalpel" instead of a "hatchet."
What is the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk?
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is an entity created to reduce bureaucracy and government spending in the U.S. It is led by Elon Musk, who has implemented a series of massive staff cuts and other expenditures deemed unnecessary. Its mission is to transform the state apparatus under the Trump administration.
How has Congress reacted to the cuts promoted by Elon Musk?
The speed and intensity of the cutback measures driven by Musk have raised concerns in Congress, especially among Republican legislators who are calling for greater transparency. Some lawmakers have expressed their discontent and labor complaints have emerged due to these massive cuts.
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