Summary

Trump has ordered Elon Musk to scale back his aggressive government downsizing efforts, instructing him to use a “scalpel” rather than a “hatchet” when cutting the federal workforce.

Musk has faced backlash for mass firings, accidental cuts to critical programs, and staffing controversies.

Public approval of Musk’s role is declining, with concerns over his influence.

Despite Trump affirming Cabinet authority, he warned departments to make cuts or face Musk’s intervention. Lawsuits and internal resistance continue to challenge DOGE’s sweeping changes.