Tech billionaire Elon Musk and a group of investors launched a $97.4 billion bid to purchase the non-profit arm of artificial intelligence company OpenAI, adding fuel to a bitter rivalry between Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Watch this report for more details!

OpenAI Chief Sam Altman rejects $97.4 billion offer from Elon Musk

Open AI CEO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sam-altman" rel="dofollow">Sam Altman</a> on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that OpenAI is not for sale, particularly not to Elon Musk.&nbsp;
Tesla CEO Elon Musk is a "competitor who is not able to beat", Altman told Axios on the sidelines of the AI Action Summit in Paris.
"OpenAI is not for sale. OpenAI's mission is not for sale - to say nothing of the fact that, like, a competitor who is not able to beat us in the market and you know, instead is just trying to say, like, 'I'm gonna buy this' with total disregard for the mission is a likely path there," Altman said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-offers-to-buy-openai-for-nearly-100bn-sam-altman-says-would-rather-buy-twitter-for-8709155" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk offers to buy OpenAI for nearly $100bn, Sam Altman says would rather buy 'Twitter' for...</a>
He further said there have been like versions of Elon trying to somehow take control of OpenAI for a long time, "so, it's like, okay, here's this week's episode."
<h2>Musk's $97.4 billion bid&nbsp;</h2>
This comes a day after Elon Musk made a USD 97.4 billion bid to acquire the assets of OpenAI. The bid is backed by Musk&rsquo;s AI company xAI along with investors, including Valor Equity Partners, Baron Capital, Atreides Management, Vy Capital, and Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel, according to a report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/openai-chief-sam-altman-talks-ai-collaboration-with-india-calls-country-incredibly-important-market-8693322" rel="dofollow">OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, says it's &lsquo;incredibly important market&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;It's time for OpenAI to return to the open-source, safety-focused force for good it once was. We will make sure that happens,&rdquo; Musk said.
The OpenAI CEO took a jibe at the offer on X, saying, "No thank you but we will buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you want."
Altman during the interview also said that he does not believe Musk is a "happy person" and Musk's "whole life is from a position of insecurity &mdash; I feel for the guy.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-sam-altman-donald-trump-stargate-project-8656146" rel="dofollow">Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Tesla CEO Elon Musk is a "competitor who is not able to beat", Sam Altman told Axios on the sidelines of the AI Action Summit in Paris.

Open AI CEO Sam Altman on Tuesday (Feb 11) said that OpenAI is not for sale, particularly not to Elon Musk. Tesla CEO Elon Musk is a "competitor who is not able to beat", Altman told Axios on the sidelines of the AI Action Summit in Paris. "OpenAI is not for sale. OpenAI's mission is not for sale - to say nothing of the fact that, like, a competitor who is not able to beat us in the market and you know, instead is just trying to say, like, 'I'm gonna buy this' with total disregard for the mission is a likely path there," Altman said. Also read: Elon Musk offers to buy OpenAI for nearly $100bn, Sam Altman says would rather buy 'Twitter' for... He further said there have been like versions of Elon trying to somehow take control of OpenAI for a long time, "so, it's like, okay, here's this week's episode." Musk's $97.4 billion bid This comes a day after Elon Musk made a USD 97.4 billion bid to acquire the assets of OpenAI. The bid is backed by Musk’s AI company xAI along with investors, including Valor Equity Partners, Baron Capital, Atreides Management, Vy Capital, and Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel, according to a report. Also read: OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, says it's ‘incredibly important market’ “It's time for OpenAI to return to the open-source, safety-focused force for good it once was. We will make sure that happens,” Musk said. The OpenAI CEO took a jibe at the offer on X, saying, "No thank you but we will buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if you want." Altman during the interview also said that he does not believe Musk is a "happy person" and Musk's "whole life is from a position of insecurity — I feel for the guy.” Also read: Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump (With inputs from agencies)

'OpenAI not for sale': Sam Altman calls Elon Musk 'competitor who is not able to beat us'

The rift between Elon Musk and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/ais-impact-on-environment-and-inequality-dominates-global-summit-in-paris-8708866">Sam Altman</a> continues to grow as the Tesla CEO, leading a consortium of investors, offered $97.4 billion to buy the non-profit that controls OpenAI on Monday (Feb 10). The company has been working to restructure itself away from its original no-profit status - but now Musk's offer could interfere with the company's plan, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
Marc Toberoff, the attorney who is representing the investors, said, "If Sam Altman and the present OpenAI, Inc. Board of Directors are intent on becoming a fully for-profit corporation, it is vital that the charity be fairly compensated for what its leadership is taking away from it: control over the most transformative technology of our time."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-to-debut-first-super-bowl-ad-joining-rivals-google-and-meta-in-ai-advertising-race-8705611">OpenAI to debut first Super Bowl ad, joining rivals Google and Meta in AI advertising race</a>
<h2>'No thank you'</h2>
As the announcement came, Altman swiftly took to the social media platform X and wrote, "No thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want."
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no thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want
&mdash; Sam Altman (@sama) <a href="https://twitter.com/sama/status/1889059531625464090?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Musk's constant allegations&nbsp;</h2>
Musk and Altman have been engaged in a rivalry for a long time. The duo co-founded the OpenAI in 2015. The X owner left the organisation before it became big in the tech market. In 2023, Musk founded xAI, a competing AI platform.&nbsp;
In August 2024, Musk sued Altman claiming unethical practices within the organisation and for violating the contract provisions.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/openai-chief-sam-altman-talks-ai-collaboration-with-india-calls-country-incredibly-important-market-8693322">OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, says it's &lsquo;incredibly important market&rsquo;</a>
In November 2024, the Tesla CEO tried blocking OpenAI from becoming a for-profit organisation. Musk said that during the inception of the platform, the founders were approached for funding claiming it would be developed to use AI for humanity's benefit. But now the company is transitioning to become a profit-making organisation.&nbsp;
<h2>'They don&rsquo;t have the money'</h2>
On January 21, US President Donald Trump introduced a plan to invest $500 billion in creating new Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centres across the United States. Sam Altman was among the top executives who proposed it.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-claims-chinese-rival-deepseek-trained-ai-chatbot-using-chatgpt-microsoft-investigates-8668642">OpenAI claims Chinese rival DeepSeek trained AI chatbot using ChatGPT; Microsoft investigates</a>
Soon after the announcement of the project, Trump's ally Musk had a public outburst. The billionaire, leading the newly formed DOGE department under Trump, spent days on social media claiming that neither OpenAI nor SoftBank has sufficient funds to invest. He was also seen firing jabs at Altman, who was once an ally of the X owner.&nbsp;
Replying to a post announcing the project by OpenAI on Musk-owned X, the billionaire wrote, "They don&rsquo;t have the money." He further said, &ldquo;SoftBank has well under $10bn secured. I have that on good authority.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

WORLD | TRENDING | In the latest in the rift between Elon Musk and Sam Altman, the Tesla CEO, leading a consortium of investors,  offered $97.4 billion to buy the non-profit that controls OpenAI on Monday (Feb 10). 

The rift between Elon Musk and Sam Altman continues to grow as the Tesla CEO, leading a consortium of investors, offered $97.4 billion to buy the non-profit that controls OpenAI on Monday (Feb 10). The company has been working to restructure itself away from its original no-profit status - but now Musk's offer could interfere with the company's plan, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. Marc Toberoff, the attorney who is representing the investors, said, "If Sam Altman and the present OpenAI, Inc. Board of Directors are intent on becoming a fully for-profit corporation, it is vital that the charity be fairly compensated for what its leadership is taking away from it: control over the most transformative technology of our time." Also read: OpenAI to debut first Super Bowl ad, joining rivals Google and Meta in AI advertising race 'No thank you' As the announcement came, Altman swiftly took to the social media platform X and wrote, "No thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want." no thank you but we will buy twitter for $9.74 billion if you want — Sam Altman (@sama) February 10, 2025 Musk's constant allegations Musk and Altman have been engaged in a rivalry for a long time. The duo co-founded the OpenAI in 2015. The X owner left the organisation before it became big in the tech market. In 2023, Musk founded xAI, a competing AI platform. In August 2024, Musk sued Altman claiming unethical practices within the organisation and for violating the contract provisions. Also read: OpenAI chief Sam Altman talks AI collaboration with India, says it's ‘incredibly important market’ In November 2024, the Tesla CEO tried blocking OpenAI from becoming a for-profit organisation. Musk said that during the inception of the platform, the founders were approached for funding claiming it would be developed to use AI for humanity's benefit. But now the company is transitioning to become a profit-making organisation. 'They don’t have the money' On January 21, US President Donald Trump introduced a plan to invest $500 billion in creating new Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centres across the United States. Sam Altman was among the top executives who proposed it. Also read: OpenAI claims Chinese rival DeepSeek trained AI chatbot using ChatGPT; Microsoft investigates Soon after the announcement of the project, Trump's ally Musk had a public outburst. The billionaire, leading the newly formed DOGE department under Trump, spent days on social media claiming that neither OpenAI nor SoftBank has sufficient funds to invest. He was also seen firing jabs at Altman, who was once an ally of the X owner. Replying to a post announcing the project by OpenAI on Musk-owned X, the billionaire wrote, "They don’t have the money." He further said, “SoftBank has well under $10bn secured. I have that on good authority.” (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk offers to buy OpenAI for nearly $100bn, Sam Altman says would rather buy 'Twitter' for...

Elon Musk claimed on Monday (Feb 10) that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated $59 million last week to luxury hotels in New York City to accommodate illegal migrants.
In an early morning post on X, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's</a> aide said that the emergency funds had been "just discovered" by his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His revelation came as Trump advocated for a complete restructuring of FEMA, even suggesting the agency could be disbanded.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-elon-musks-doge-us-treasury-department-shakeup-could-be-biggest-security-breach-in-us-history-8704805" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;Massive risks&rsquo;: How Elon Musk&rsquo;s Treasury shakeup could be &lsquo;biggest security breach in US history&rsquo;</a>
&ldquo;Sending this money violated the law and is in gross insubordination to the President&rsquo;s executive order,&rdquo; Musk wrote.
&ldquo;That money is meant for American disaster relief and instead is being spent on high-end hotels for illegals,&rdquo; he continued.
&ldquo;A clawback demand will be made today to recoup those funds,&rdquo; the billionaire added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hell-expose-billions-of-dollars-of-fraud-trump-defends-terrific-elon-musks-government-overhaul-8705625" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: 'He'll expose billions of dollars of fraud': Trump defends 'terrific' Elon Musk&rsquo;s government overhaul</a>
Last month, President Trump issued an executive order establishing a council to examine FEMA&rsquo;s operations, citing &ldquo;serious concerns of political bias&rdquo; within the agency. The president has called for the council&rsquo;s first meeting within 90 days and expects to receive a report on its findings within 180 days of that initial gathering.
This came after Trump met with survivors of Hurricane Helene, many of whom remain homeless four months after the disaster. During this appearance, he floated the idea of a comprehensive overhaul of FEMA. Criticising the agency&rsquo;s effectiveness, Trump said that FEMA was &ldquo;not on the ball&hellip; and we&rsquo;re going to turn it all around.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/most-corrupt-least-competent-elon-musk-demands-impeachment-of-judge-who-blocked-doge-treasury-access-8705333" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;Most corrupt, least competent&rsquo;: Elon Musk demands &lsquo;impeachment&rsquo; of judge who blocked DOGE&rsquo;s Treasury access</a>
Speaking at a roundtable with federal and local officials, the president announced plans to sign an executive order aimed at fundamentally reforming FEMA or potentially dismantling it altogether. &ldquo;I think, frankly, that FEMA&rsquo;s not good,&rdquo; he said.
Trump also accused the agency of mishandling emergency response efforts, arguing that federal aid should be provided directly to US states in the aftermath of disasters instead of being distributed through FEMA.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In an early morning post on X, US President Donald Trump's aide said that the emergency funds had been "just discovered" by his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)

Elon Musk claimed on Monday (Feb 10) that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated $59 million last week to luxury hotels in New York City to accommodate illegal migrants. In an early morning post on X, US President Donald Trump's aide said that the emergency funds had been "just discovered" by his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). His revelation came as Trump advocated for a complete restructuring of FEMA, even suggesting the agency could be disbanded. Also read: ‘Massive risks’: How Elon Musk’s Treasury shakeup could be ‘biggest security breach in US history’ “Sending this money violated the law and is in gross insubordination to the President’s executive order,” Musk wrote. “That money is meant for American disaster relief and instead is being spent on high-end hotels for illegals,” he continued. “A clawback demand will be made today to recoup those funds,” the billionaire added. Also read: 'He'll expose billions of dollars of fraud': Trump defends 'terrific' Elon Musk’s government overhaul Last month, President Trump issued an executive order establishing a council to examine FEMA’s operations, citing “serious concerns of political bias” within the agency. The president has called for the council’s first meeting within 90 days and expects to receive a report on its findings within 180 days of that initial gathering. This came after Trump met with survivors of Hurricane Helene, many of whom remain homeless four months after the disaster. During this appearance, he floated the idea of a comprehensive overhaul of FEMA. Criticising the agency’s effectiveness, Trump said that FEMA was “not on the ball… and we’re going to turn it all around.” Also read: ‘Most corrupt, least competent’: Elon Musk demands ‘impeachment’ of judge who blocked DOGE’s Treasury access Speaking at a roundtable with federal and local officials, the president announced plans to sign an executive order aimed at fundamentally reforming FEMA or potentially dismantling it altogether. “I think, frankly, that FEMA’s not good,” he said. Trump also accused the agency of mishandling emergency response efforts, arguing that federal aid should be provided directly to US states in the aftermath of disasters instead of being distributed through FEMA. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gross insubordination’: Musk claims FEMA sent $59mn to luxury hotels to ‘house illegal migrants’

Tech billionaire Elon Musk reacted to a signboard at London's Whitechapel station written in the Bengali language. United Kingdom politician Rupert Lowe shared an image on X (formerly Twitter), arguing that station names should be displayed "in English, and English only". The images showed "Whitechapel Station" written in two languages - English and Bengali.&nbsp;
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Musk reposted the images with an affirmation. He wrote, "Yes". ,&nbsp;
Lowe, who is a Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth, shared a post, captioning: "This is London - station name should be in English and English only."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6ykmm74-1kz83eeq-pd7o1iw9">
Yes
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1888578797013770481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ever since Musk weighed in on the issue, some users on social media platforms seemed confused as to why it was written in Bengali.&nbsp;
Traditionally, East London's Whitechapel has been a hub for British Bangladeshis who played a significant role in the Whitechapel community.&nbsp;
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In 2022, Transport for London (TfL) unveiled the Bengali signs to honour the cultural legacy of British Bangladeshis.&nbsp;
Chief Minister of the Indian state of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, had hailed the move, calling it a "victory of our culture and heritage".&nbsp;
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In a post on X in March 2022, she wrote, "Proud to note that the London Tube Rail has accepted Bengali as a language of signage at Whitechapel Station, signifying the increasing global importance and strength of the 1000-year-old language."&nbsp;
"It underlines that the diaspora should work together in common cultural directions. It is a victory of our culture and heritage," she added.&nbsp;
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<h2>How people reacted?&nbsp;</h2>
However, what was once considered an inclusive approach has now become a matter of discussion in London, especially after Lowe's post.&nbsp;
The post has triggered a debate with users weighing in their opinions. One user supported Lowe's thoughts and wrote, "Couldn't agree more Rupert, it's time to stand up for our national identity and language. We shouldn't be pandering to every other culture at the expense of our own, it's just common sense. Well said, keep speaking out against this woke nonsense."&nbsp;
Some users spoke against it. One said, "While I appreciate the sentiment imagine visiting Tokyo or Shanghai and not a single sign was written in English?"&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | Trending | Whitechapel's Bengali signage honours British Bangladeshi heritage, highlighting the area's historical significance and cultural diversity within London's community.

Tech billionaire Elon Musk reacted to a signboard at London's Whitechapel station written in the Bengali language. United Kingdom politician Rupert Lowe shared an image on X (formerly Twitter), arguing that station names should be displayed "in English, and English only". The images showed "Whitechapel Station" written in two languages - English and Bengali. Also read: Researchers discover exoplanet that may have potential to sustain life Musk reposted the images with an affirmation. He wrote, "Yes". , Lowe, who is a Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth, shared a post, captioning: "This is London - station name should be in English and English only." Yes — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 9, 2025 Ever since Musk weighed in on the issue, some users on social media platforms seemed confused as to why it was written in Bengali. Traditionally, East London's Whitechapel has been a hub for British Bangladeshis who played a significant role in the Whitechapel community. Also read: Study reveals mindboggling fact about age of Chandrayaan-3's landing site In 2022, Transport for London (TfL) unveiled the Bengali signs to honour the cultural legacy of British Bangladeshis. Chief Minister of the Indian state of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, had hailed the move, calling it a "victory of our culture and heritage". Also read: Americans deem misuse of campaign funds, ignoring subpoenas among top presidential misdeeds: Poll In a post on X in March 2022, she wrote, "Proud to note that the London Tube Rail has accepted Bengali as a language of signage at Whitechapel Station, signifying the increasing global importance and strength of the 1000-year-old language." "It underlines that the diaspora should work together in common cultural directions. It is a victory of our culture and heritage," she added. Also read: What is rare ‘sun candle’ phenomenon? Austria skier captures its magical video How people reacted? However, what was once considered an inclusive approach has now become a matter of discussion in London, especially after Lowe's post. The post has triggered a debate with users weighing in their opinions. One user supported Lowe's thoughts and wrote, "Couldn't agree more Rupert, it's time to stand up for our national identity and language. We shouldn't be pandering to every other culture at the expense of our own, it's just common sense. Well said, keep speaking out against this woke nonsense." Some users spoke against it. One said, "While I appreciate the sentiment imagine visiting Tokyo or Shanghai and not a single sign was written in English?" (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk reacts to Bengali sign board placed at London's Whitechapel station: 'This is London...'

President Donald Trump said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/elon-musk" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk</a>, who is overseeing job reductions in US government agencies, will be instrumental in uncovering "hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud" within federal departments in comments set to air on Sunday (Feb 09).
Fox News released a brief excerpt of an interview with President Trump, set to be broadcast in full later today.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-at-the-super-bowl-lix-a-historic-first-for-us-president-as-his-nfl-feud-lingers-8705525">Trump at the Super Bowl LIX: A historic first for US President as his NFL feud lingers</a>
During the preview, Trump was asked if he trusted Musk, the owner of X, who has been tasked with running the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an entity that is not officially recognised as a government department.
<h2>'Musk not gaining anything'</h2>
"He's not gaining anything," Trump said in the interview, scheduled to air at 15:00 EST (20:00 GMT). He further mentioned that he would direct Musk to vet the Department of Education "soon" before moving on to doing "the same thing" with the US military.
"We're going to find billions, hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud and abuse. And, you know, the people elected me on that," Trump asserted in excerpts released by Fox News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/openai-to-debut-first-super-bowl-ad-joining-rivals-google-and-meta-in-ai-advertising-race-8705611">OpenAI to debut first Super Bowl ad, joining rivals Google and Meta in AI advertising race</a>
The president voiced his appreciation for Musk's contributions, saying, "I've had great help with Elon Musk, who's been terrific."
Just three weeks into his second term in the White House, Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed at cutting down federal expenditure. As part of these efforts, he has assigned SpaceX and Tesla chief executive Musk to lead cost-cutting initiatives under the unofficial Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rising-legal-battles-over-trumps-executive-orders-a-look-at-key-lawsuits-8705351">Rising legal battles over Trump&rsquo;s executive orders: A look at key lawsuits</a>
Musk has already begun taking action by dismantling the US Agency for International Development, resulting in mass layoffs. However, federal judges have intervened, temporarily halting further layoffs.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Trump was asked if he trusted Musk, the owner of X, who has been tasked with running the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an entity that is not officially recognised as a government department.

President Donald Trump said that Elon Musk, who is overseeing job reductions in US government agencies, will be instrumental in uncovering "hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud" within federal departments in comments set to air on Sunday (Feb 09). Fox News released a brief excerpt of an interview with President Trump, set to be broadcast in full later today. Also read: Trump at the Super Bowl LIX: A historic first for US President as his NFL feud lingers During the preview, Trump was asked if he trusted Musk, the owner of X, who has been tasked with running the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an entity that is not officially recognised as a government department. 'Musk not gaining anything' "He's not gaining anything," Trump said in the interview, scheduled to air at 15:00 EST (20:00 GMT). He further mentioned that he would direct Musk to vet the Department of Education "soon" before moving on to doing "the same thing" with the US military. "We're going to find billions, hundreds of billions of dollars of fraud and abuse. And, you know, the people elected me on that," Trump asserted in excerpts released by Fox News. Also read: OpenAI to debut first Super Bowl ad, joining rivals Google and Meta in AI advertising race The president voiced his appreciation for Musk's contributions, saying, "I've had great help with Elon Musk, who's been terrific." Just three weeks into his second term in the White House, Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed at cutting down federal expenditure. As part of these efforts, he has assigned SpaceX and Tesla chief executive Musk to lead cost-cutting initiatives under the unofficial Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. Also read: Rising legal battles over Trump’s executive orders: A look at key lawsuits Musk has already begun taking action by dismantling the US Agency for International Development, resulting in mass layoffs. However, federal judges have intervened, temporarily halting further layoffs. (With inputs from agencies)

'He'll expose billions of dollars of fraud': Trump defends 'terrific' Elon Musk’s government overhaul

Elon Musk has called for the impeachment of federal judge Paul Engelmayer following a ruling on Saturday morning that restricts his Department of Government Efficiency's (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/doge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DOGE</a>) access to the Treasury Department&rsquo;s payment systems. 
The judge's decision mandates that only civil servants with a direct need for access in their job roles may use the systems. The ruling explicitly bars special government employees and those temporarily assigned from external departments from accessing these systems.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-elon-musks-doge-us-treasury-department-shakeup-could-be-biggest-security-breach-in-us-history-8704805" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Massive risks&rsquo;: How Elon Musk&rsquo;s Treasury shakeup could be &lsquo;biggest security breach in US history&rsquo;</a>
US District Judge Paul Engelmayer, appointed by former president Barack Obama, also asked that anyone already blocked from access immediately destroy any materials they may have downloaded from the Treasury&rsquo;s system.
Judge Engelmayer justified the decision by arguing that Musk&rsquo;s cost-cutting measures within the government presented a significant risk. He said that these initiatives increased &ldquo;the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information&rdquo; and made Treasury systems &ldquo;more vulnerable than before to hacking.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-great-american-guessing-game-who-runs-the-country-trump-or-musk-8703842">The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk?</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6xr8ohm-nmli2kld-mtfucbrr">
I&rsquo;d like to propose that the worst 1% of appointed judges, as determined by elected bodies, be fired every year. This will weed out the most corrupt and least competent.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1888589047129329675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by 19 Democratic state attorneys general, who voiced concerns over Musk and his team&rsquo;s level of access to sensitive financial information.
<h2>'A corrupt judge protecting corruption'</h2>
Musk appeared irked by the decision and took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent his frustration.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6xr856c-owj6rtwz-xt7tk1d5">
A corrupt judge protecting corruption. He needs to be impeached NOW! <a href="https://t.co/zgnwZuOz2Y">https://t.co/zgnwZuOz2Y</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1888485948121366871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
&ldquo;A corrupt judge protecting corruption. He needs to be impeached NOW,&rdquo; Musk wrote in one post.
In another post, the Tesla CEO and close ally of President Trump suggested, &ldquo;I&rsquo;d like to propose that the worst 1% of appointed judges, as determined by elected bodies, be fired every year. This will weed out the most corrupt and least competent.&rdquo;
Musk, who leads DOGE, had earlier responded with &ldquo;it&rsquo;s time&rdquo; to a post calling for the impeachment of judges who have ruled against actions taken by the Trump administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-to-reinstate-doge-staffer-ousted-over-racist-posts-after-trump-vance-back-him-8703410">&lsquo;To err is human&rsquo;: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him</a>
Judge Engelmayer&rsquo;s ruling remains in place until at least Friday, when another judge, permanently assigned to oversee the case, is scheduled to hold a hearing in New York to determine whether to extend the order.
&ldquo;The Court&rsquo;s firm assessment is that, for the reasons stated by the States, they will face irreparable harm in the absence of injunctive relief,&rdquo; Engelmayer wrote in his decision.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk suggested, “I’d like to propose that the worst 1% of appointed judges, as determined by elected bodies, be fired every year.”

Elon Musk has called for the impeachment of federal judge Paul Engelmayer following a ruling on Saturday morning that restricts his Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) access to the Treasury Department’s payment systems. The judge's decision mandates that only civil servants with a direct need for access in their job roles may use the systems. The ruling explicitly bars special government employees and those temporarily assigned from external departments from accessing these systems. Also read: ‘Massive risks’: How Elon Musk’s Treasury shakeup could be ‘biggest security breach in US history’ US District Judge Paul Engelmayer, appointed by former president Barack Obama, also asked that anyone already blocked from access immediately destroy any materials they may have downloaded from the Treasury’s system. Judge Engelmayer justified the decision by arguing that Musk’s cost-cutting measures within the government presented a significant risk. He said that these initiatives increased “the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information” and made Treasury systems “more vulnerable than before to hacking.” Also read: The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk? I’d like to propose that the worst 1% of appointed judges, as determined by elected bodies, be fired every year. This will weed out the most corrupt and least competent. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 9, 2025 The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by 19 Democratic state attorneys general, who voiced concerns over Musk and his team’s level of access to sensitive financial information. 'A corrupt judge protecting corruption' Musk appeared irked by the decision and took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent his frustration. A corrupt judge protecting corruption. He needs to be impeached NOW! https://t.co/zgnwZuOz2Y — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 9, 2025 “A corrupt judge protecting corruption. He needs to be impeached NOW,” Musk wrote in one post. In another post, the Tesla CEO and close ally of President Trump suggested, “I’d like to propose that the worst 1% of appointed judges, as determined by elected bodies, be fired every year. This will weed out the most corrupt and least competent.” Musk, who leads DOGE, had earlier responded with “it’s time” to a post calling for the impeachment of judges who have ruled against actions taken by the Trump administration. Also read: ‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him Judge Engelmayer’s ruling remains in place until at least Friday, when another judge, permanently assigned to oversee the case, is scheduled to hold a hearing in New York to determine whether to extend the order. “The Court’s firm assessment is that, for the reasons stated by the States, they will face irreparable harm in the absence of injunctive relief,” Engelmayer wrote in his decision. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Most corrupt, least competent’: Elon Musk demands ‘impeachment’ of judge who blocked DOGE’s Treasury access

A federal judge issued an order on Saturday (Feb 9) requiring Elon Musk&rsquo;s team to temporarily halt its activities involving the Treasury Department&rsquo;s payment systems. But this has not quelled fears that Musk's Department of Government&nbsp;Efficiency might be creating a significant cyber and national security risk.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-claims-us-treasury-annually-pays-100-billion-to-unidentified-individuals-8704233" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Musk claims US Treasury annually pays $100 billion to unidentified individuals</a>
<h2>'Treasury&rsquo;s systems more vulnerable than before to hacking'</h2>
In his ruling, Judge Paul A. Engelmayer stressed that Musk&rsquo;s cost-cutting initiative within the government posed a serious risk of &ldquo;the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information&rdquo; and had made the Treasury&rsquo;s systems &ldquo;more vulnerable than before to hacking.&rdquo;
<h2>Cybersecurity experts raise alarm</h2>
For the past ten days, cybersecurity experts have been raising alarms as Musk&rsquo;s team of young coders sought access to the Treasury&rsquo;s most restricted systems. Scott Bessent, the newly appointed Treasury secretary, eventually approved this access.
According to a Washington Post report, a subcontractor working for Booz Allen Hamilton, the firm responsible for much of the Treasury&rsquo;s threat detection operations, had issued a formal warning about the risks. This warning was later withdrawn after its details were leaked.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-blocks-musks-doge-from-accessing-us-treasury-department-sensitive-personal-data-8702676">Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data</a>
Cybersecurity specialists have warned of the potential consequences of allowing outsiders into such a tightly controlled system. Possible risks include personal data breaches, unauthorised redirection of payments, and the misuse of information by political opponents.
Bruce Schneier, a cybersecurity expert from Harvard, described Musk&rsquo;s intervention as &ldquo;the most consequential security breach&rdquo; in American history. Speaking to The New York Times, Schneier said that the breach did not result from &ldquo;a sophisticated cyberattack or an act of foreign espionage, but through official orders by a billionaire with a poorly defined government role.&rdquo;
James Goldgeier and Elizabeth N. Saunders, writing in Foreign Affairs on Friday, pointed out the Treasury Department&rsquo;s crucial role in US foreign policy, particularly in enforcing sanctions. They said that the main targets of these sanctions&mdash;China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea&mdash;are also America's primary cyber adversaries.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-treasury-department-claims-chinese-hack-beijing-rejects-allegations-of-sponsoring-cyber-attacks" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: US Treasury Department Claims Chinese Hack; Beijing Rejects Allegations Of Sponsoring Cyber Attacks</a>
&ldquo;If Musk&rsquo;s team has access to and can rewrite the code directing US government payments, the cybersecurity and privacy risks would be massive. Hostile intelligence services are likely already at work trying to assess which Musk team members might be sloppy with their digital devices or vulnerable to entrapment or coercion,&rdquo; they wrote.
The government has insisted that Musk&rsquo;s team has only been permitted to review &ldquo;read-only&rdquo; data within the Treasury Department&rsquo;s systems. 
<h2>Previous cyberattacks on US Treasury&nbsp;</h2>
In December, the Treasury Department disclosed in a letter to Congress that a Chinese intelligence group had infiltrated its systems and stolen unclassified data. While the full extent of the damage has not been revealed, the incident shows that the agency is a prime target for Beijing.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-team-has-read-only-access-to-payments-data-says-us-treasury-department-8694317">Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department</a>
During the Obama administration, Chinese intelligence operatives breached the Office of Personnel Management&rsquo;s database, accessing security clearance records for over 20 million Americans. US officials believe that Chinese agents have since merged this data with stolen records from Starwood hotels and Anthem health systems to map officials&rsquo; movements and associations.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: In his ruling, Judge Paul A. Engelmayer stressed that Musk’s cost-cutting initiative within the government posed a serious risk of “the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information”.

A federal judge issued an order on Saturday (Feb 9) requiring Elon Musk’s team to temporarily halt its activities involving the Treasury Department’s payment systems. But this has not quelled fears that Musk's Department of Government Efficiency might be creating a significant cyber and national security risk. Also read: Musk claims US Treasury annually pays $100 billion to unidentified individuals 'Treasury’s systems more vulnerable than before to hacking' In his ruling, Judge Paul A. Engelmayer stressed that Musk’s cost-cutting initiative within the government posed a serious risk of “the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information” and had made the Treasury’s systems “more vulnerable than before to hacking.” Cybersecurity experts raise alarm For the past ten days, cybersecurity experts have been raising alarms as Musk’s team of young coders sought access to the Treasury’s most restricted systems. Scott Bessent, the newly appointed Treasury secretary, eventually approved this access. According to a Washington Post report, a subcontractor working for Booz Allen Hamilton, the firm responsible for much of the Treasury’s threat detection operations, had issued a formal warning about the risks. This warning was later withdrawn after its details were leaked. Also read: Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data Cybersecurity specialists have warned of the potential consequences of allowing outsiders into such a tightly controlled system. Possible risks include personal data breaches, unauthorised redirection of payments, and the misuse of information by political opponents. Bruce Schneier, a cybersecurity expert from Harvard, described Musk’s intervention as “the most consequential security breach” in American history. Speaking to The New York Times, Schneier said that the breach did not result from “a sophisticated cyberattack or an act of foreign espionage, but through official orders by a billionaire with a poorly defined government role.” James Goldgeier and Elizabeth N. Saunders, writing in Foreign Affairs on Friday, pointed out the Treasury Department’s crucial role in US foreign policy, particularly in enforcing sanctions. They said that the main targets of these sanctions—China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea—are also America's primary cyber adversaries. Also read: US Treasury Department Claims Chinese Hack; Beijing Rejects Allegations Of Sponsoring Cyber Attacks “If Musk’s team has access to and can rewrite the code directing US government payments, the cybersecurity and privacy risks would be massive. Hostile intelligence services are likely already at work trying to assess which Musk team members might be sloppy with their digital devices or vulnerable to entrapment or coercion,” they wrote. The government has insisted that Musk’s team has only been permitted to review “read-only” data within the Treasury Department’s systems. Previous cyberattacks on US Treasury In December, the Treasury Department disclosed in a letter to Congress that a Chinese intelligence group had infiltrated its systems and stolen unclassified data. While the full extent of the damage has not been revealed, the incident shows that the agency is a prime target for Beijing. Also read: Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department During the Obama administration, Chinese intelligence operatives breached the Office of Personnel Management’s database, accessing security clearance records for over 20 million Americans. US officials believe that Chinese agents have since merged this data with stolen records from Starwood hotels and Anthem health systems to map officials’ movements and associations. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Massive risks’: How Elon Musk’s Treasury shakeup could be ‘biggest security breach in US history’

Elon Musk, the American entrepreneur who heads the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claimed on February 8 that the country's Treasury Department pays $100 billion worth of benefits to unidentified individuals every year.
"Yesterday I was told that currently over $100 billion in benefits are being paid to people without a personal Social Security number or even a temporary ID. If this is true, it is extremely suspicious," Musk wrote on X.
"When I asked if anyone at the Treasury Department knew even roughly what percentage of these payments were outright and obvious fraud, the unanimous answer was that we are talking about half, that is, $50 billion per year or $1 billion per week. This is insane to the extreme and needs to be addressed immediately," he added.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ill-leave-him-alone-donald-trump-on-why-he-wont-deport-prince-harry-8704075">&lsquo;I'll leave him alone&rsquo;: Donald Trump on why he won&rsquo;t deport Prince Harry</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Measures taken to enhance transparency</h2>
The Tesla CEO noted that after the discussions between DOGE representatives and the Treasury Department, measures have been taken to enhance transparency and accountability in government payments.&nbsp;
Additionally, each money transfer must be accompanied by an explanation of the need for this payment. There will also be a regularly updated list of individuals who may have died at the time of the transfer or who have ties to terrorist groups.&nbsp;
Notably, these reforms are being implemented by Treasury Department staff, independent of Elon Musk's oversight.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-great-american-guessing-game-who-runs-the-country-trump-or-musk-8703842">The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk?</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Musk aims to reduce US govt spending by $2 trillion</h2>
Immediately after the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, DOGE began a large-scale audit of US budget spending. On January 24, the new agency reported that in the first 80 hours of work, it had cancelled government contracts deemed unnecessary, totalling about $420 million.
Elon Musk aims to slash US government spending by a staggering $2 trillion. To achieve this goal, Musk initiated the temporary closure of the United States Agency for International Development for reorganization purposes.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-biden-trump-cancels-security-clearances-for-blinken-jake-sullivan-8703814">After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan</a>
Musk's team has also gained access to the federal payment system, courtesy of US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, to oversee and curb government expenditures. This move has sparked concerns among some officials, who worry about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on sensitive taxpayer information.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World: Elon Musk claims the US Treasury pays $billion annually to unknown recipients, raising concerns about government spending transparency and efficiency.

Elon Musk, the American entrepreneur who heads the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), claimed on February 8 that the country's Treasury Department pays $100 billion worth of benefits to unidentified individuals every year. "Yesterday I was told that currently over $100 billion in benefits are being paid to people without a personal Social Security number or even a temporary ID. If this is true, it is extremely suspicious," Musk wrote on X. "When I asked if anyone at the Treasury Department knew even roughly what percentage of these payments were outright and obvious fraud, the unanimous answer was that we are talking about half, that is, $50 billion per year or $1 billion per week. This is insane to the extreme and needs to be addressed immediately," he added. Also read | ‘I'll leave him alone’: Donald Trump on why he won’t deport Prince Harry Measures taken to enhance transparency The Tesla CEO noted that after the discussions between DOGE representatives and the Treasury Department, measures have been taken to enhance transparency and accountability in government payments. Additionally, each money transfer must be accompanied by an explanation of the need for this payment. There will also be a regularly updated list of individuals who may have died at the time of the transfer or who have ties to terrorist groups. Notably, these reforms are being implemented by Treasury Department staff, independent of Elon Musk's oversight. Also read | The great American guessing game: who runs the country, Trump or Musk? Musk aims to reduce US govt spending by $2 trillion Immediately after the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, DOGE began a large-scale audit of US budget spending. On January 24, the new agency reported that in the first 80 hours of work, it had cancelled government contracts deemed unnecessary, totalling about $420 million. Elon Musk aims to slash US government spending by a staggering $2 trillion. To achieve this goal, Musk initiated the temporary closure of the United States Agency for International Development for reorganization purposes. Also read | After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan Musk's team has also gained access to the federal payment system, courtesy of US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, to oversee and curb government expenditures. This move has sparked concerns among some officials, who worry about potential conflicts of interest and the impact on sensitive taxpayer information. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk claims US Treasury annually pays $100 billion to unidentified individuals

World: Explore the intriguing cover of TIME magazine featuring Elon Musk at the Resolute Desk, sparking public debate amid Donald Trump's ongoing second presidential term.

The cover of TIME magazine’s latest issue features Elon Musk sitting behind the fabled Resolute Desk in the Oval Office of the White House. The picture has no text or caption. It is a public reminder of a question asked increasingly frequently as Donald Trump’s second presidential term unfolds. The question: who is really in charge of the government of the United States? The world’s richest man, Elon Musk, or Donald Trump, whose electoral campaign benefitted from contributions totalling $288 million from Musk. In return, the day Trump assumed office, he named Musk head of a newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), whose aim is to make huge cuts in federal spending. Also read | After Biden, Trump cancels security clearances for Blinken, Jake Sullivan Critics soon dubbed Musk co-president. Social media memes and cartoons proliferated, with one of the most viewed showing Musk as a puppeteer pulling the strings of Trump. This is why the TIME cover needed no explanation. It irked Trump, whose unsmiling response to a press conference question about the depiction of Musk in the Oval Office was, “Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn’t know that.” If that was meant as an attempt at light-hearted repartee, it fell flat as reporters soon found Trump’s reaction to TIME naming him Person of the Year in December. “It’s an honour, it’s a great honour.” To put the cover episode, in week three of Trump 2.0, into context: news magazines used to have an enormous impact on public opinion through much of the 20th century. But their importance faded in an information ecosystem now dominated by social media and cable TV. Also read | Tsunami advisory issued after magnitude 7.6 earthquake hits Caribbean Still, TIME, first published in 1923, reports a circulation of 1.2 million. To return to DOGE and the controversies and achievements of Trump’s first few weeks, the words “unprecedented” and “American Exceptionalism” come to mind. There is no precedent for an unelected private citizen to be charged with cutting two trillion dollars from a 6.75 trillion federal budget. There is no precedent either for DOGE, which is not a cabinet-level department of the U.S. government but was established as an advisory group. There were no guidelines on the extent, or limits, of its power. Musk appears to believe its authority trumps laws and regulations. As to American Exceptionalism: Musk could be the poster boy for the concept, the epitome of the American dream that draws millions of foreigners to America. Also read | Alaska plane crash: Bodies of all 10 people recovered. Here’s what we know Where else could an immigrant from South Africa amass a fortune estimated at $424 billion, more than $150 million more than Jeff Bezos, the U.S.-born Jeff Bezos, who owns Amazon and is the world’s second-richest man? Where else could a private citizen, with the help of a super smart former employee of one of his companies, gain access to the payments system of the U.S. Treasury which processes federal spending accounting for roughly a fifth of the U.S. economy? Where else would a president ignore the possibility of huge conflicts of interest by giving free rein to a cost-cutting czar who has billions of dollars worth of contracts with important agencies of the government and some of the most important companies in the defence and space industries? All of this is exceptional though it is not the kind of American exceptionalism that has filled generations of Americans with pride – a country based on an idea rather than on blood and soil. So, how much government spending has been cut in the first three weeks of DOGE and what have been the primary targets of Musk’s cost-cutters? Given the outsize role of “defence” in the U.S. economy, you might assume that the Pentagon has been under early scrutiny following the “shock and awe” announcement of impending cuts. This does not appear to be the case despite a history of jaw-dropping waste. In 2018, a Republican Senator, Charles Grassley, provided several mind-boggling examples. In an opinion piece in the New York Times in December 2018, Grassley wrote that “the Defense Department has had to explain why it’s been paying $14,000 for individual 3-D printed toilet seats and purchasing cups for $1,280.00 each.” Also read | Trump talked to Putin, says Russian president 'wants to see people stop dying' in Ukraine war: Report The Pentagon’s budget for fiscal 2025 (ending in September) is $849.8 billion. But rather than going for the big stuff, both Musk and Trump have been focused on USAID, the US Agency for International Development. Its spending accounts for around one per cent of the overall federal budget. On his social media platform X, Musk described USAID as a “criminal organization. Time for it to die.” Trump asserted on his platform that USAID is “run by radical left-wing lunatics.” Neither Trump nor Musk has provided concrete examples of malfeasance or lunatic behaviour. That has not kept them from planning to cut USAID personnel from around 10,000 around the world to 294. USAID is the most visible demonstration of “soft power” demonstrating to people around the world that the United States can be a force for good. It provides food for the hungry and medicines for the sick. As Samantha Power, who ran USAID from 2021 to 2025, put it in an opinion piece in the New York Times: ”We are witnessing one of the worst and most costly foreign policy blunders in history.” Halting aid programmes around the world, she wrote, imperils millions of lives, thousands of American jobs, and billions of dollars of investment in American business and small farms. Killing USAID “is a win for autocrats everywhere,” she concluded. Judging from a string of surveys over the years, such arguments do little to touch emotional buttons for most Americans. Aid to foreigners is not popular, thanks partly to lazy journalism omitting context that might sway public opinion. Poll after poll has shown that most Americans believe that foreign aid accounts for around 25 per cent of the federal budget. Year after year, the actual figure has been around one per cent. That vast gap between perception and reality makes USAID an easy target.

The great American guessing game: who runs the country,  Trump or Musk?

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk&rsquo;s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him.
&ldquo;He will be brought back,&rdquo; Musk announced on X. &ldquo;To err is human, to forgive divine.&rdquo;
Musk&rsquo;s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283">How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession</a>
Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data.
"Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote.
During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez&rsquo;s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance&rsquo;s position.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-transgenders-woe-as-passport-process-gets-complicated-for-them-amid-trumps-new-policy-8703305">American Transgenders woe as passport process gets complicated for them amid Trump's new policy</a>
&ldquo;Well, I don&rsquo;t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,&rdquo; Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m with the vice president.&rdquo;
Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-appoint-himself-chairman-of-washingtons-top-cultural-venue-the-kennedy-center-8700987">Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center</a>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-donald-trumps-tremendous-resentment-for-japan-fueled-his-tariff-obsession-8703283"></a>Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency.
Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-intention-to-absorb-canada-into-us-is-real-thing-8700778">Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'</a>
Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity."
Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk&rsquo;s private companies&mdash;SpaceX and X.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez.

A day after a Treasury Department employee linked to Elon Musk’s DOGE cost-cutting initiative stepped down following a Wall Street Journal report exposing his racist social media activity, the Trump administration has pledged to reinstate him. “He will be brought back,” Musk announced on X. “To err is human, to forgive divine.” Musk’s statement came after both Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump showed support for the return of 25-year-old software engineer Marko Elez. Also read: How Donald Trump's 'tremendous resentment for Japan' fueled his tariff obsession Vice President Vance publicly defended Elez, one of two government employees associated with Musk who had been granted access to sensitive taxpayer data. "Here's my view: I obviously disagree with some of Elez's posts, but I don't think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life," Vance wrote. During a press conference on Friday, Trump was asked about the demands for Elez’s reinstatement. He indicated that he supported Vance’s position. Also read: American Transgenders woe as passport process gets complicated for them amid Trump's new policy “Well, I don’t know about that particular thing, but if the vice president said that,” Trump stated, before turning to Vance, who was present at the event, and confirming his stance. “I’m with the vice president.” Elez was one of only two individuals linked to DOGE who had been permitted by a federal court to access the Treasury Department system, which oversees the distribution of over $5 trillion annually. A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked DOGE from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. Also read: Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center Earlier on Friday, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users whether Elez should be reinstated. The results showed that 78% supported his return to the Department of Government Efficiency. Elez resigned on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal revealed his past racist social media comments. According to the report, one of his posts from July read: "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool." Also read: Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' Other posts reportedly included statements such as "Normalize Indian hate" and "You could not pay me to marry outside of my ethnicity." Before his brief tenure in the federal government, Elez had worked at two of Musk’s private companies—SpaceX and X. (With inputs from agencies)

‘To err is human’: Musk to reinstate DOGE staffer ousted over racist posts after Trump, Vance back him

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans.&nbsp;
District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-in-a-poll-on-x-asks-if-he-should-rehire-doge-staffer-who-resigned-over-racist-tweets-8700501" rel="dofollow">Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets</a>
The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data.&nbsp;
According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law.&nbsp;
The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems.&nbsp;
Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/normalise-indian-hate-elon-musks-highly-trained-doge-employee-resigns-after-questions-on-racist-posts-online-8697917" rel="dofollow">'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online</a>
Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed.&nbsp;
Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending.&nbsp;
Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds.&nbsp;
"This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority.&nbsp;
The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. 

A US federal judge on Saturday (Feb 8) blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing Treasury Department records which contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security and bank account numbers for millions of Americans. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued the preliminary injunction after 19 Democratic attorneys general sued US President Donald Trump. Also read: Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets The payment system handles several domains, including tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits, sending out trillions of dollars every year while containing an expansive network of Americans' personal and financial data. According to the case filed in federal court in New York City, the Trump administration allegedly allowed Musk's team access to the Treasury Department's central payment system in violation of federal law. The district judge, Engelmayer, was appointed by former President Barack Obama. He said that anyone prohibited from having access to the sensitive information since January 20 this year, must immediately destroy all copies of material downloaded from Treasury Department systems. Engelmayer set a hearing for February 14. Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online Earlier, the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit being filed. Musk's DOGE was created to discover and eliminate what the Trump administration has considered wasteful government spending. Notably, DOGE's access to Treasury records has triggered widespread concern among critics over the increasing power of Musk in Trump's administration, while supporters have cheered at the idea of reining in bloated government finances. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge New York Attorney General Letitia James's office filed the lawsuit, saying DOGE's access to the Treasury Department's data raises security problems and the possibility of an illegal freeze in federal funds. "This unelected group, led by the world's richest man, is not authorized to have this information, and they explicitly sought this unauthorized access to illegally block payments that millions of Americans rely on, payments for health care, child care, and other essential programs," James said in a video message on Friday. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark The suit alleged that DOGE's access to the Treasury records could interfere with funding already appropriated by Congress, which would exceed the Treasury Department's statutory authority. The case further argued that the DOGE access violates federal administrative law and the US Constitution's separation of powers doctrine. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge blocks Musk's DOGE from accessing US Treasury Department's sensitive personal data

US President Donald Trump asked if Time Magazine is still in business after he was asked about its latest cover showing Elon Musk behind Trump's resolute desk. "Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn't even know that," Trump said leading laughs in the room. The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-appoint-himself-chairman-of-washingtons-top-cultural-venue-the-kennedy-center-8700987">Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6vvbl9x-6m72ec2x-x13lj40r">
NEW: Reporter asks Trump about his reaction to the new TIME cover depicting Elon Musk as president, Trump replies by saying he didn't realize TIME was still in business. Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to the TIME Magazine cover that has Elon Musk sitting behind your resolute&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/GlcoGPqvKh">pic.twitter.com/GlcoGPqvKh</a>
&mdash; Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollinRugg/status/1887925469531750707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-tit-for-tat-us-president-revokes-security-clearance-of-predecessor-joe-biden-8700784">Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden</a>
The magazine questioned how Musk enjoys the power that no businessman ever had and how he is only accountable to the US president "who handed his campaign benefactor a sweeping mandate to bring the government in line with his agenda".
Trump then went on to praise Musk saying, "Elon is doing a great job. He is finding tremendous fraud and corruption and waste. You see it with the USAID but you are going to see even more with other agencies and other parts of the government."&nbsp;
"He's got a staff that's fantastic. He's wanted to be able to do this for a long time. Everybody else knew it was existent but, I think, never so much when you look at USAID. The whole thing is a fraud," he further added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-intention-to-absorb-canada-into-us-is-real-thing-8700778">Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing'</a>
The US president further added, "Very little being put to good use. Every single line that I look at in terms of events and transactions is either corrupt or ridiculous. And we are going to be doing that through our government and we are going to be very close to balancing the budget. He's (Elon) doing a very good job. I am very happy with it."&nbsp;
Trump's statement about Time Magazine came after the US president was selected as Person of the Year in 2024 by the magazine.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/keep-it-simple-bangars-advise-to-rohit-sharma-amid-prolonged-lean-patch-8701495">'Keep it simple', Bangar's advise to Rohit Sharma amid prolonged lean patch</a><img src="https://media.cnn.com/api/v1/images/stellar/prod/210401220308-conclu-trump.jpg?q=x_4,y_207,h_2246,w_3991,c_crop/h_833,w_1480" alt="Trump Twitter: Supreme Court wipes away ruling that said Trump violated Constitution by blocking Twitter followers | CNN Politics">
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business. 

US President Donald Trump asked if Time Magazine is still in business after he was asked about its latest cover showing Elon Musk behind Trump's resolute desk. "Is TIME magazine still in business? I didn't even know that," Trump said leading laughs in the room. The US president was asked what is his opinion on the cover, which pushed the "President Musk" narrative. Trump said he did not realise the magazine was still in business. Also read: Trump to appoint himself chairman of Washington's top cultural venue, the Kennedy Center NEW: Reporter asks Trump about his reaction to the new TIME cover depicting Elon Musk as president, Trump replies by saying he didn't realize TIME was still in business. Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to the TIME Magazine cover that has Elon Musk sitting behind your resolute… pic.twitter.com/GlcoGPqvKh — Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 7, 2025 Also read: Trump's tit-for-tat: US President revokes security clearance of predecessor Biden The magazine questioned how Musk enjoys the power that no businessman ever had and how he is only accountable to the US president "who handed his campaign benefactor a sweeping mandate to bring the government in line with his agenda". Trump then went on to praise Musk saying, "Elon is doing a great job. He is finding tremendous fraud and corruption and waste. You see it with the USAID but you are going to see even more with other agencies and other parts of the government." "He's got a staff that's fantastic. He's wanted to be able to do this for a long time. Everybody else knew it was existent but, I think, never so much when you look at USAID. The whole thing is a fraud," he further added. Also read: Trudeau says Trump's threat to absorb Canada into US is a 'real thing' The US president further added, "Very little being put to good use. Every single line that I look at in terms of events and transactions is either corrupt or ridiculous. And we are going to be doing that through our government and we are going to be very close to balancing the budget. He's (Elon) doing a very good job. I am very happy with it." Trump's statement about Time Magazine came after the US president was selected as Person of the Year in 2024 by the magazine. Also read: 'Keep it simple', Bangar's advise to Rohit Sharma amid prolonged lean patch (With inputs from agencies)

'Is Time Magazine still in business?' Trump asks after 'President Musk' cover

American billionaire Elon Musk on Friday posted a poll on his social media X, asking users if he should rehire the staffer at Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who resigned over his social media posts advocating for racism and eugenics.&nbsp;
Tesla CEO Musk posted, "Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Bring back <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DOGE</a> staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1887867644814020902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/normalise-indian-hate-elon-musks-highly-trained-doge-employee-resigns-after-questions-on-racist-posts-online-8697917" rel="dofollow">'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online</a>
25-year-old Marko Elez resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians.&nbsp;
Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-team-has-read-only-access-to-payments-data-says-us-treasury-department-8694317" rel="dofollow">Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department</a>
In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity.&nbsp;
In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate".&nbsp;
Elez also had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool", according to the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-delays-deadline-for-elon-musks-resign-or-be-fired-buyout-scheme-for-federal-employees-8697881" rel="dofollow">US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees</a>
On Thursday, US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation.&nbsp;
Moreover, he also commented on the Israel-Hamas conflict, saying, &ldquo;I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.&rdquo;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491" rel="dofollow"> &lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
However, it is not clear whether Musk will reinstate Elez based on the outcome of the X poll.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes". 

American billionaire Elon Musk on Friday posted a poll on his social media X, asking users if he should rehire the staffer at Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) who resigned over his social media posts advocating for racism and eugenics. Tesla CEO Musk posted, "Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym?” Bring back @DOGE staffer who made inappropriate statements via a now deleted pseudonym? — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 7, 2025 The post had nearly 2.9 million views and more than 2,32,000 votes. Notably, more than 80 per cent of users who answered the poll, replied "yes". Also read: 'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online 25-year-old Marko Elez resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians. Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Also read: Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity. In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate". Elez also had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool", according to the Wall Street Journal. Also read: US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees On Thursday, US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation. Moreover, he also commented on the Israel-Hamas conflict, saying, “I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.” Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge However, it is not clear whether Musk will reinstate Elez based on the outcome of the X poll. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk in a poll on X asks if he should rehire DOGE staffer who resigned over racist tweets

A 25-year-old staff member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
The White House was questioned about Marko Elez, one of the two department staff members who gained access to the US Treasury's payment system. The second employee to have access is&nbsp;Tom Krause, the chief executive of Cloud Software Group Inc.&nbsp;
Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy."&nbsp;He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072">&lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity.&nbsp;
In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate".&nbsp;
According to the Wall Street Journal, Elez had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-akash-bobba-22-year-old-indian-origin-tech-prodigy-hired-by-musks-doge-8688462">Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?</a>
US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation.&nbsp;
As per WSJ, Elez posted in December 2024 that Indian workers in the US on H1B visas are "going back, don't worry guys."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-and-trumps-doge-under-ethics-watchdogs-radar-over-record-keeping-violations-american-oversight-says-clearly-efforts-underway-to-conceal-information-using-auto-delete-8649440">Elon Musk and Donald Trump's 'Doge' agency under ethics watchdog's radar. Here's why</a>
Commenting on the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ex-DOGE member said, &ldquo;I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.&rdquo;
This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg that he had personally reviewed the background of both employees of Musk's DOGE team.&nbsp;
WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/musks-doge-adopts-ai-first-strategy-will-it-help-save-taxpayers-money-8691623">Musk's Doge adopts 'AI first' strategy: will it help save taxpayers money?</a>
"These are highly trained professionals," he said in the interview.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | This incident has sparked broader discussions on the responsibility of tech leaders to ensure ethical conduct among employees and the impact of social media misuse.

A 25-year-old staff member of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) resigned on Thursday (Feb 6) after questions were raised about his connection with a social media account promoting racism against various ethnicities, including Indians. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge The White House was questioned about Marko Elez, one of the two department staff members who gained access to the US Treasury's payment system. The second employee to have access is Tom Krause, the chief executive of Cloud Software Group Inc. Elez had a profile on Elon Musk's social media platform, where he supported "eugenic immigration policy." He also called for the repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark In one of his posts in September 2024, Elez reportedly said one "can not pay" him for marrying outside his ethnicity. In another post, he referred to the Indian nationals working in the technology sector in Silicon Valley and encouraged others to "normalise Indian hate". According to the Wall Street Journal, Elez had a post in which he said, "Just for the record, I was racist before it was cool." Also read: Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed his resignation. As per WSJ, Elez posted in December 2024 that Indian workers in the US on H1B visas are "going back, don't worry guys." Also read: Elon Musk and Donald Trump's 'Doge' agency under ethics watchdog's radar. Here's why Commenting on the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ex-DOGE member said, “I would not mind at all if Gaza and Israel were both wiped off the face of the Earth.” This came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg that he had personally reviewed the background of both employees of Musk's DOGE team. WATCH: Musk's Doge adopts 'AI first' strategy: will it help save taxpayers money? "These are highly trained professionals," he said in the interview. (With inputs from agencies)

'Normalise Indian hate': Elon Musk's 'highly trained' DOGE employee resigns after questions on racist posts online

Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling was suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-of-these-aliens-donald-trump-administration-sues-chicago-over-sanctuary-laws-8697819">'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws</a>
A federal judge in the state of Massachusetts has ordered a temporary injunction that delays the plan's deadline from Thursday midnight to Monday (Feb 10). The decision was delivered by US District Judge George O'Toole during a hearing in an appeal brought by US labour unions.
<h2>What was going to happen on midnight Thursday?</h2>
Thursday (Feb 7) midnight was the earlier deadline by which more than two million federal government employees were supposed to decide whether they'll resign with eight months' pay or risk being fired in future culls.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-slaps-sanctions-on-icc-over-israeli-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-baseless-arrest-warrant-8697704">Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu</a>
Already, over 40,000 staff have accepted the buyout deal, reports AFP. However, unions representing around 800,000 civil servants and Democratic members of the US Congress are resisting the scheme and have challenged the legality of the Trump administration's threat to fire them.
<h2>What does Musk have to do with this?</h2>
Musk, a close Donald Trump ally was roped in to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump 2.0 administration and is believed to be the mastermind behind this money-cutting scheme.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-team-has-read-only-access-to-payments-data-says-us-treasury-department-8694317">Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department</a>
(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;
&nbsp;

A US judge has temporarily halted Elon Musk's controversial buyout plan for federal employees, delaying the deadline aimed at reducing government workforce size.

Elon Musk's scheme to slash the size of the US government by instilling "panic" and encouraging federal workers to quit through a mass buyout instead of facing future culling was suspended by a judge on Thursday (Feb 6). This comes as 40,000 people have already taken up the offer, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Also read | 'Some of these aliens...': Donald Trump administration sues Chicago over 'sanctuary' laws A federal judge in the state of Massachusetts has ordered a temporary injunction that delays the plan's deadline from Thursday midnight to Monday (Feb 10). The decision was delivered by US District Judge George O'Toole during a hearing in an appeal brought by US labour unions. What was going to happen on midnight Thursday? Thursday (Feb 7) midnight was the earlier deadline by which more than two million federal government employees were supposed to decide whether they'll resign with eight months' pay or risk being fired in future culls. Also read | Trump slaps sanctions on ICC over 'baseless' arrest warrant against Netanyahu Already, over 40,000 staff have accepted the buyout deal, reports AFP. However, unions representing around 800,000 civil servants and Democratic members of the US Congress are resisting the scheme and have challenged the legality of the Trump administration's threat to fire them. What does Musk have to do with this? Musk, a close Donald Trump ally was roped in to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the Trump 2.0 administration and is believed to be the mastermind behind this money-cutting scheme. Also read | Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department (With inputs from agencies)

US judge delays deadline for Musk's 'resign or be fired' buyout scheme for federal employees

Nationwide protests have erupted across the US, with demonstrators rallying against Trump, Musk, and Project 2025. Citizens are voicing their concerns on social issues, economic policies, and more, as tensions rise in major cities.

Nationwide protests rock US as demonstrators slam Trump, Musk, and Project 2025

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency has hired a team of six young engineers aged between 19 to 24. Some are fresh out of college, while one is still a student. Among them is a 22-year-old engineer of Indian origin, Akash Bobba. According to his now-deleted LinkedIn account, Akash is a graduate of the University of California, where he was a part of the Management and Technology program.

Musk-led DOGE hires team of six young engineers

The protesters gathered all across the US to protest President Donald Trump's administration's actions, from his immigration crackdown to the taking away of transgender rights and proposal to forcibly transfer Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement.&nbsp;
The 50501 Movement, as it is being called, refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
The protesters in Philadelphia and at state capitols in California, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Indiana, and beyond waved signs criticising President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk, the leader of Trump&rsquo;s new Department of Government Efficiency; and Project 2025, a hard-right playbook for American government and society.
<h2>What is the 50501 movement?</h2>
The movement is a grassroots initiative mobilising mass protests against US President Trump's policies.&nbsp;
The organisers of the movement included moderators of the 50501 movement. They also collaborated with Political Revolution, a PAC and volunteer-based activist group that emerged following Senator Bernie Sanders's 2016 presidential campaign.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/trumps-gaza-takeover-plan-and-non-nuclear-iran-a-game-changer-or-a-political-fantasy-8695161">Trump&rsquo;s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy?</a>
The 50501 Movement and Political Revolution, in a joint press release, called for the removal or resignation of Trump, investigations into his appointees, including Elon Musk, repeal of &ldquo;oppressive&rdquo; executive orders, and the restoration of frameworks for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"Our goal is to unite the American people against our common enemy: the Trump administration, anyone involved in dismantling our democracy, and anyone who wishes to divide us by our differences instead of unite us by what makes us American," the joint press release read.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rights-groups-sue-trump-against-order-banning-transgender-service-members-8673272">Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members</a>
<h2>What is happening at the protest?</h2>
The organisers of the protest described the movement as a "decentralized rapid response to the anti-democratic, destructive, and, in many cases, illegal actions being undertaken by the Trump administration and his plutocrats."
Margaret Wilmeth, a protester from Ohio, said she is appalled by democracy's changes in the last, specifically two weeks, but it started a long time ago.&nbsp;
&ldquo;So I&rsquo;m just trying to put a presence into resistance," she said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-in-gaza-reject-trumps-take-over-plan-we-will-remain-steadfast-in-our-homeland-8694651">Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland'</a>
A crowd of hundreds of people were gathered outside the state capital in Lansing, Michigan, in freezing temperatures.&nbsp;
Catie Miglietti, from the Ann Arbor area, said Musk&rsquo;s access to Treasury Department data was especially concerning.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If we don&rsquo;t stop it and get Congress to do something, it&rsquo;s an attack on democracy,&rdquo; Miglietti said.
Another protester was seen slamming Musk's DOGE. "DOGE is not legit,&rdquo; read one poster on the state Capitol steps in Jefferson City, Missouri. &ldquo;Why does Elon have your Social Security info???&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement, which refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day."

The protesters gathered all across the US to protest President Donald Trump's administration's actions, from his immigration crackdown to the taking away of transgender rights and proposal to forcibly transfer Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. The demonstrators were protesting in 50 states across the country on Wednesday. They were seen taking part in the 50501 Movement. The 50501 Movement, as it is being called, refers to "50 protests in 50 states on one day." Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports The protesters in Philadelphia and at state capitols in California, Minnesota, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Indiana, and beyond waved signs criticising President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk, the leader of Trump’s new Department of Government Efficiency; and Project 2025, a hard-right playbook for American government and society. What is the 50501 movement? The movement is a grassroots initiative mobilising mass protests against US President Trump's policies. The organisers of the movement included moderators of the 50501 movement. They also collaborated with Political Revolution, a PAC and volunteer-based activist group that emerged following Senator Bernie Sanders's 2016 presidential campaign. Also read: Trump’s Gaza Takeover Plan and Non-Nuclear Iran: A Game-Changer or a Political Fantasy? The 50501 Movement and Political Revolution, in a joint press release, called for the removal or resignation of Trump, investigations into his appointees, including Elon Musk, repeal of “oppressive” executive orders, and the restoration of frameworks for diversity, equity, and inclusion. "Our goal is to unite the American people against our common enemy: the Trump administration, anyone involved in dismantling our democracy, and anyone who wishes to divide us by our differences instead of unite us by what makes us American," the joint press release read. Also read: Rights groups sue Trump against order banning transgender service members What is happening at the protest? The organisers of the protest described the movement as a "decentralized rapid response to the anti-democratic, destructive, and, in many cases, illegal actions being undertaken by the Trump administration and his plutocrats." Margaret Wilmeth, a protester from Ohio, said she is appalled by democracy's changes in the last, specifically two weeks, but it started a long time ago. “So I’m just trying to put a presence into resistance," she said. Also read: Palestinians in Gaza reject Trump's takeover plan: 'We will remain steadfast in our homeland' A crowd of hundreds of people were gathered outside the state capital in Lansing, Michigan, in freezing temperatures. Catie Miglietti, from the Ann Arbor area, said Musk’s access to Treasury Department data was especially concerning. “If we don’t stop it and get Congress to do something, it’s an attack on democracy,” Miglietti said. Another protester was seen slamming Musk's DOGE. "DOGE is not legit,” read one poster on the state Capitol steps in Jefferson City, Missouri. “Why does Elon have your Social Security info???” (With inputs from agencies)

What is 50501 movement? Protesters rally across US against Trump's policies

22-year-old engineer, Akash Bobba joins Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. Before joining DOGE, Bobba interned at Meta, Palantir while working in AI, data analytics. Bobba’s genius in coding gained viral attention after a post by his Berkeley classmate. Watch in for more details!

22-year-old engineer, Akash Bobba joins Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency

US Democratic Representative Mark Pocan plans to introduce a bill designed to ban “special government employees” like Elon Musk from having federal contracts. Watch this report for more details!

Democrats to introduce 'Elon Musk' act to block Musk's federal contracts

Protests erupt in cities nationwide as demonstrators voice their opposition to former President Trump’s policies, Project 2025, and the influence of billionaire Elon Musk on American politics. The rallies highlight growing tensions surrounding the future of the US political landscape.

Protesters across US rally against Trump’s policies, Project 2025, and Elon Musk

The US Treasury said Tuesday that Elon Musk's government reform team can read data from its highly sensitive payment system but not alter it, after Democratic lawmakers raised the alarm over the move and called for an investigation.
Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
As part of that drive, he reportedly pushed for a team led by IT executive Tom Krause to be given access to the Treasury Department's closely guarded payment system, which handles trillions of dollars of transactions, from Social Security and Medicare payouts to federal salaries.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-hints-at-leash-on-elon-musk-as-doge-ramps-up-government-purge-8690491">&lsquo;Can&rsquo;t do anything without our approval&rsquo;: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge</a>
In response, Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden sent a letter Tuesday to the congressional watchdog agency demanding it probe reports that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had personally granted Musk and his aides that permission.
The Treasury, in a letter sent to Congress and shared with AFP, confirmed Krause's team has access to the system, but said it is "read-only access... in order to continue this operational efficiency assessment."
They said the permission was "similar to the kind of access that Treasury provides to individuals reviewing Treasury systems, such as auditors."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-akash-bobba-22-year-old-indian-origin-tech-prodigy-hired-by-musks-doge-8688462">Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?</a>
Musk's efficiency drive has run into strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who have raised a wide range of legal and ethical concerns about his moves to slash federal spending.
In a separate letter sent to Republican President Donald Trump on Tuesday, other Democratic policymakers expressed concern over DOGE's work involving government data and facilities.
Labour unions and a grassroots advocacy group have also objected to the moves, filing a lawsuit calling on a federal judge to declare it illegal for Musk or others from DOGE to get personal information on taxpayers and to block the Treasury Department from letting that happen.
In a post on X, the social media platform that he owns, Musk said Monday that the "only way to stop fraud and waste of taxpayer money is to follow the payment flows and pause suspicious transactions for review."
Musk's access to the payments system was approved by Bessent and made possible when a career official was put on administrative leave after refusing to allow entry, according to the lawsuit. The official later retired.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World: Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The US Treasury said Tuesday that Elon Musk's government reform team can read data from its highly sensitive payment system but not alter it, after Democratic lawmakers raised the alarm over the move and called for an investigation. Musk, the world's richest person, is leading President Donald Trump's federal cost-cutting efforts under the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). As part of that drive, he reportedly pushed for a team led by IT executive Tom Krause to be given access to the Treasury Department's closely guarded payment system, which handles trillions of dollars of transactions, from Social Security and Medicare payouts to federal salaries. Also read: ‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge In response, Democratic Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden sent a letter Tuesday to the congressional watchdog agency demanding it probe reports that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had personally granted Musk and his aides that permission. The Treasury, in a letter sent to Congress and shared with AFP, confirmed Krause's team has access to the system, but said it is "read-only access... in order to continue this operational efficiency assessment." They said the permission was "similar to the kind of access that Treasury provides to individuals reviewing Treasury systems, such as auditors." Also read: Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? Musk's efficiency drive has run into strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who have raised a wide range of legal and ethical concerns about his moves to slash federal spending. In a separate letter sent to Republican President Donald Trump on Tuesday, other Democratic policymakers expressed concern over DOGE's work involving government data and facilities. Labour unions and a grassroots advocacy group have also objected to the moves, filing a lawsuit calling on a federal judge to declare it illegal for Musk or others from DOGE to get personal information on taxpayers and to block the Treasury Department from letting that happen. In a post on X, the social media platform that he owns, Musk said Monday that the "only way to stop fraud and waste of taxpayer money is to follow the payment flows and pause suspicious transactions for review." Musk's access to the payments system was approved by Bessent and made possible when a career official was put on administrative leave after refusing to allow entry, according to the lawsuit. The official later retired. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Musk team has 'read-only' access to payments data, says US Treasury department

Elon Musk's influence on the federal government is expanding and with it the use of artificial intelligence as well. As per reports, his Department of Government Efficiency, that's Doge, is reportedly using AI to identify budget cuts, raising concerns about the potential impact on government services and the increasing reliance on AI in decision-making. Watch in for more details!

Musk's DOGE Taps AI For Spending Cuts; Will AI Help US Taxpayers Save Money?

Elon Musk's Dogecoin adopts an 'AI-first' strategy, sparking discussions on whether this approach can streamline operations and ultimately save taxpayers money. The move marks a bold step in integrating artificial intelligence into cryptocurrency, potentially impacting both markets and government spending.

Musk's DOGE adopts 'AI first' strategy: will it help save taxpayers money?

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, is waging a war against U.S. bureaucracy for power and profit. In the two weeks since the tech billionaire took charge of the Department of Government Efficiency, he is accused of upending federal operations, dismissing federal employees, and trying to shut down U.S. aid. These decisions impact not only Americans but also people worldwide. While Musk claims he is pursuing cost-cutting measures, important questions arise like - what about safeguards? Who ensures accountability? Watch in for more details!

Elon Musk wages war against U.S. bureaucracy for power & profit

US President Donald Trump has stated that Elon Musk, who has been given the responsibility of reducing government expenditure, is under his direct supervision and cannot take any action without approval.&nbsp;
"Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good if we agree with him, and it&rsquo;s only if we agree with him. Elon can&rsquo;t do and won&rsquo;t do anything without our approval," Trump said.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-wants-ukraine-to-repay-us-aid-with-rare-earths-what-are-rare-earth-elements-8689845" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them?</a>
"Sometimes we won&rsquo;t agree with it, and we&rsquo;ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he&rsquo;s doing a great job," Trump told reporters.
His comments come amid growing concerns over the level of access granted to Musk&rsquo;s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) within the government&rsquo;s financial system, following the billionaire&rsquo;s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
<h2>'Won&rsquo;t let him go near a conflict': Donald Trump</h2>
Speaking at the White House, Trump clarified that Musk would not be allowed access to areas where conflicts exist.
&ldquo;And we&rsquo;ll give him the approval where appropriate, and where not appropriate, we won&rsquo;t; where we think there&rsquo;s a conflict, we won&rsquo;t let him go near it,&rdquo; Trump said.
"But he reports in and he, it&rsquo;s something that he feels very strongly about, and I&rsquo;m impressed because he&rsquo;s running, obviously, a big company," Trump added.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sued-by-diversity-officers-in-an-attempt-to-block-anti-diversity-orders-8690162" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders</a>
The US president's comments came shortly after a team led by Musk effectively shut down USAID. Over the weekend, Musk publicly criticised the agency, calling it &ldquo;evil&rdquo; and &ldquo;a criminal organisation,&rdquo; adding that it was &ldquo;time for it to die.&rdquo; On Monday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was appointed as the agency&rsquo;s interim head, stating he would consult with Congress on its future.
Initially, Trump had announced that Musk would co-chair the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. However, several individuals involved in the initiative, including the other co-chair, have already left, leaving Musk with considerable authority.
Musk had initially sought volunteers to join DOGE without pay. However, since the department is now part of the government, there is uncertainty over whether staff are being paid and whether they are permitted to hold external jobs that might create conflicts of interest.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-deletes-irs-direct-file-programme-team-is-free-tax-filing-at-risk-in-us-8689371" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Elon Musk &lsquo;deletes&rsquo; IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?</a>
<h2>'Special government employee'</h2>
As a designated &ldquo;special government employee,&rdquo; Musk holds a temporary position, allowing him to work at the White House for up to 130 days without needing to file financial disclosure forms, which are mandatory for permanent employees. This mechanism has previously been used by both political parties to bring in advisers with complex financial backgrounds.
On Monday, Trump reiterated that Musk would not be permitted to interfere in areas where conflicts arise. &ldquo;If there&rsquo;s a conflict, then we won&rsquo;t let him get near it,&rdquo; he said. However, he did not clarify who would enforce these restrictions or whether Musk had already been barred from any governmental departments.
Democratic lawmakers have become increasingly vocal in their opposition to Musk&rsquo;s involvement in government affairs, particularly his moves to either dismantle agencies or significantly reduce government employment.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
&ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have a fourth branch of government called Elon Musk, and that&rsquo;s going to become real clear,&rdquo; stated Representative Jamie Raskin during a protest outside USAID. &ldquo;This illegal, unconstitutional interference with congressional power is threatening lives all over the world,&rdquo; he added.
Musk and his White House team have been taking swift action to overhaul government operations. They have already accessed financial system data within the Treasury Department and reviewed staffing records at the Office of Personnel Management.&nbsp;
On Monday, a coalition of labour unions filed a lawsuit against the Treasury Department, alleging that the transfer of information to DOGE was unlawful and violated federal privacy protections affecting millions of citizens.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: "Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good. Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has stated that Elon Musk, who has been given the responsibility of reducing government expenditure, is under his direct supervision and cannot take any action without approval. "Elon has got access only to letting people go that he thinks are no good if we agree with him, and it’s only if we agree with him. Elon can’t do and won’t do anything without our approval," Trump said. Also read: Trump wants Ukraine to repay US aid with 'rare earths': What are they and why does he want them? "Sometimes we won’t agree with it, and we’ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he’s doing a great job," Trump told reporters. His comments come amid growing concerns over the level of access granted to Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) within the government’s financial system, following the billionaire’s decision to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID). 'Won’t let him go near a conflict': Donald Trump Speaking at the White House, Trump clarified that Musk would not be allowed access to areas where conflicts exist. “And we’ll give him the approval where appropriate, and where not appropriate, we won’t; where we think there’s a conflict, we won’t let him go near it,” Trump said. "But he reports in and he, it’s something that he feels very strongly about, and I’m impressed because he’s running, obviously, a big company," Trump added. Also read: Trump sued by diversity officers in an attempt to block anti-diversity orders The US president's comments came shortly after a team led by Musk effectively shut down USAID. Over the weekend, Musk publicly criticised the agency, calling it “evil” and “a criminal organisation,” adding that it was “time for it to die.” On Monday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was appointed as the agency’s interim head, stating he would consult with Congress on its future. Initially, Trump had announced that Musk would co-chair the newly created Department of Government Efficiency. However, several individuals involved in the initiative, including the other co-chair, have already left, leaving Musk with considerable authority. Musk had initially sought volunteers to join DOGE without pay. However, since the department is now part of the government, there is uncertainty over whether staff are being paid and whether they are permitted to hold external jobs that might create conflicts of interest. Also read: Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US? 'Special government employee' As a designated “special government employee,” Musk holds a temporary position, allowing him to work at the White House for up to 130 days without needing to file financial disclosure forms, which are mandatory for permanent employees. This mechanism has previously been used by both political parties to bring in advisers with complex financial backgrounds. On Monday, Trump reiterated that Musk would not be permitted to interfere in areas where conflicts arise. “If there’s a conflict, then we won’t let him get near it,” he said. However, he did not clarify who would enforce these restrictions or whether Musk had already been barred from any governmental departments. Democratic lawmakers have become increasingly vocal in their opposition to Musk’s involvement in government affairs, particularly his moves to either dismantle agencies or significantly reduce government employment. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark “We don’t have a fourth branch of government called Elon Musk, and that’s going to become real clear,” stated Representative Jamie Raskin during a protest outside USAID. “This illegal, unconstitutional interference with congressional power is threatening lives all over the world,” he added. Musk and his White House team have been taking swift action to overhaul government operations. They have already accessed financial system data within the Treasury Department and reviewed staffing records at the Office of Personnel Management. On Monday, a coalition of labour unions filed a lawsuit against the Treasury Department, alleging that the transfer of information to DOGE was unlawful and violated federal privacy protections affecting millions of citizens. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Can’t do anything without our approval’: Trump hints at leash on Musk as DOGE ramps up govt purge

Billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is working for the US president as a &ldquo;special government employee," the Associated Press reported citing a White House official as saying.
The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the Tesla CEO has been given an office space and a government email address and is not paid for his work.
In the US, special government employees typically serve for up to 130 days. Recently, President Trump gave Elon Musk the green light for his work on Sunday, shortly after returning to Washington from a weekend getaway in Florida.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I think Elon is doing a good job. He&rsquo;s a big cost-cutter," the Republican president said. &ldquo;Sometimes we won&rsquo;t agree with it, and we&rsquo;ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he&rsquo;s doing a great job,&rdquo; AP quoted Trump saying.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072">Also read: &lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris.
This investment was revealed in fresh documents filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
Democrats are sounding the alarm, worried that Musk is amassing too much power within the federal government. They fear that the billionaire is operating without proper oversight and possibly even breaking the law.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
<h2>'Musk only acting with approval,' says Trump</h2>
Trump said that Musk was only undertaking tasks after his approval.
While speaking to reporters at the White House, the US president said that Musk &ldquo;will not be allowed to go places where there is a conflict&rdquo;.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is working for the US president as a “special government employee," the Associated Press reported citing a White House official as saying. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, revealed that the Tesla CEO has been given an office space and a government email address and is not paid for his work. In the US, special government employees typically serve for up to 130 days. Recently, President Trump gave Elon Musk the green light for his work on Sunday, shortly after returning to Washington from a weekend getaway in Florida. “I think Elon is doing a good job. He’s a big cost-cutter," the Republican president said. “Sometimes we won’t agree with it, and we’ll not go where he wants to go. But I think he’s doing a great job,” AP quoted Trump saying. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark Musk reportedly spent a whopping $290 million in the 2024 US presidential election to support Donald Trump's campaign against Democrat Kamala Harris. This investment was revealed in fresh documents filed with the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Democrats are sounding the alarm, worried that Musk is amassing too much power within the federal government. They fear that the billionaire is operating without proper oversight and possibly even breaking the law. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk 'Musk only acting with approval,' says Trump Trump said that Musk was only undertaking tasks after his approval. While speaking to reporters at the White House, the US president said that Musk “will not be allowed to go places where there is a conflict”. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk works for Donald Trump as unpaid 'special government employee'

Elon Musk, who has been appointed as a "special government employee" by President Donald Trump, announced on Monday (Feb 03) that he had cut the staff of the Internal Revenue Service that oversaw the system that allows Americans to file their taxes for free easily on its website.
The billionaire tech entrepreneur posted on his social media platform that he had "deleted" 18F, a government agency that handled multiple technology projects, including the IRS&rsquo; Direct File programme. This announcement created confusion about the future of Direct File, though the free tax filing system remains operational for at least the upcoming tax season.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-digging-its-own-grave-internet-slams-billionaire-elon-musk-over-doges-long-work-hours-remark-8689072">&lsquo;DOGE digging its own grave&rsquo;: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE&rsquo;s long work hours remark</a>
A right-wing influencer&nbsp;criticised the &ldquo;direct file&rdquo; tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren. Musk responded, by saying, "That group has been deleted."
As of Monday evening, the 18F website remained functional, along with the Direct File website. However, the X account for the digital services agency had been taken down.
Last year, the IRS confirmed that it intended to make its free electronic tax filing system permanent. It also extended an invitation to all 50 states and the District of Columbia to participate in the initiative, allowing taxpayers to file their returns through the programme by 2025.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-team-now-can-access-us-treasurys-payment-system-what-does-it-mean-8684195">Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean</a>
The Direct File pilot scheme was launched in March 2024. However, private tax preparation firms have strongly opposed the initiative, as they have profited substantially from charging individuals for tax filing services. 
Commercial tax preparation companies argue that sufficient free filing options are already available. Several organisations, including private tax firms, provide free online tax preparation assistance, though eligibility is often restricted by income limits. While fillable forms are accessible via the IRS website, they can be complex, requiring taxpayers to manually calculate their tax liability.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-elon-musk-usaid-staff-told-to-work-remotely-us-news-8687844">&lsquo;Won&rsquo;t allow insubordination&rsquo;: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director</a>
In May last year, the IRS confirmed that the Direct File programme would become permanent. Initially trialled in 12 states, it has since expanded to 25 states.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to an IRS report from October 2024, users of the pilot programme claimed more than $90 million in refunds.
A 2023 poll conducted by Navigator showed that 76% of registered voters supported the IRS-run free and simplified tax filing option. The same survey found that approval for the "Direct eFile" tool was particularly high among tax filers earning under $50,000 (77%), individuals aged 18 to 34 (81%), and Black taxpayers (80%), as reported by the Economic Security Project.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: A right-wing influencer criticised the “direct file” tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren.

Elon Musk, who has been appointed as a "special government employee" by President Donald Trump, announced on Monday (Feb 03) that he had cut the staff of the Internal Revenue Service that oversaw the system that allows Americans to file their taxes for free easily on its website. The billionaire tech entrepreneur posted on his social media platform that he had "deleted" 18F, a government agency that handled multiple technology projects, including the IRS’ Direct File programme. This announcement created confusion about the future of Direct File, though the free tax filing system remains operational for at least the upcoming tax season. Also read: ‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark A right-wing influencer criticised the “direct file” tax programme on X, describing it as a "far-left government-wide computer office" established by Elizabeth Warren. Musk responded, by saying, "That group has been deleted." As of Monday evening, the 18F website remained functional, along with the Direct File website. However, the X account for the digital services agency had been taken down. Last year, the IRS confirmed that it intended to make its free electronic tax filing system permanent. It also extended an invitation to all 50 states and the District of Columbia to participate in the initiative, allowing taxpayers to file their returns through the programme by 2025. Also read: Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean The Direct File pilot scheme was launched in March 2024. However, private tax preparation firms have strongly opposed the initiative, as they have profited substantially from charging individuals for tax filing services. Commercial tax preparation companies argue that sufficient free filing options are already available. Several organisations, including private tax firms, provide free online tax preparation assistance, though eligibility is often restricted by income limits. While fillable forms are accessible via the IRS website, they can be complex, requiring taxpayers to manually calculate their tax liability. Also read: ‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director In May last year, the IRS confirmed that the Direct File programme would become permanent. Initially trialled in 12 states, it has since expanded to 25 states. According to an IRS report from October 2024, users of the pilot programme claimed more than $90 million in refunds. A 2023 poll conducted by Navigator showed that 76% of registered voters supported the IRS-run free and simplified tax filing option. The same survey found that approval for the "Direct eFile" tool was particularly high among tax filers earning under $50,000 (77%), individuals aged 18 to 34 (81%), and Black taxpayers (80%), as reported by the Economic Security Project. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk ‘deletes’ IRS Direct File programme team: Is free tax filing at risk in US?

Billionaire Elon Musk has joined a similar suit of business leaders who support long working hours.
In a post shared on his social media platform X, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has said that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees work 120 hours a week. Musk is leading the department, which is aimed at cutting federal spending.
Musk&rsquo;s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day in a week, sparking a debate on work-life balance.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-akash-bobba-22-year-old-indian-origin-tech-prodigy-hired-by-musks-doge-8688462">Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?</a>
&ldquo;DOGE is working 120 hour a week. Our bureaucratic opponents optimistically work 40 hours a week. That is why they are losing so fast,&rdquo; Musk posted on X, replying to a post attacking Democrats.
<h2>Internet divided over Musk's opinion on working hours</h2>
Several people commented on the post about the reported unrealistic working hours of DOGE employees.
&ldquo;While working for fed gov, I learned that it's illegal to work unauthorized overtime. Doing so obligates the government to pay, because slavery is illegal,&rdquo; a user wrote raising questions about the legality of the long working hours. &ldquo;So how are federal staff in DOGE legally putting in these hours? Multiple shifts?&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790">President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
&ldquo;Elon Musk has no actual authority to be able to access every American's private financial and personal information. I doubt MAGAs know or understand the impact of what you are doing,&rdquo; another commented on the billionaire&rsquo;s post.
A user who found it &ldquo;hard to believe", wrote, &ldquo;You have, 5.46 hrs remaining daily to drive home to office, to take a bath, to eat and to sleep, to take care of your family.&rdquo; He asked, &ldquo;Do you think someone can spend that time to work for at least 6 months?&rdquo; A user replied to this by saying, &ldquo;You have obviously never worked in surgery. I routinely worked 100-120 a week. Did it at one job for 10 years. It&rsquo;s why I&rsquo;ve been working optional since my late 40s.&rdquo;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500">Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
Another criticised Musk&rsquo;s remarks saying, &ldquo;120-hour weeks? That's not a flex, it's a red flag. Overworked devs make mistakes. Quality &gt; quantity in crypto. DOGE might be digging its own grave.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending | Billionaire Elon Musk’s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day, sparking a debate on work-life balance.

Billionaire Elon Musk has joined a similar suit of business leaders who support long working hours. In a post shared on his social media platform X, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO has said that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employees work 120 hours a week. Musk is leading the department, which is aimed at cutting federal spending. Musk’s remarks imply that DOGE employees work at least 17 hours every day in a week, sparking a debate on work-life balance. Also read | Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE? “DOGE is working 120 hour a week. Our bureaucratic opponents optimistically work 40 hours a week. That is why they are losing so fast,” Musk posted on X, replying to a post attacking Democrats. Internet divided over Musk's opinion on working hours Several people commented on the post about the reported unrealistic working hours of DOGE employees. “While working for fed gov, I learned that it's illegal to work unauthorized overtime. Doing so obligates the government to pay, because slavery is illegal,” a user wrote raising questions about the legality of the long working hours. “So how are federal staff in DOGE legally putting in these hours? Multiple shifts?” Also read | President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk “Elon Musk has no actual authority to be able to access every American's private financial and personal information. I doubt MAGAs know or understand the impact of what you are doing,” another commented on the billionaire’s post. A user who found it “hard to believe", wrote, “You have, 5.46 hrs remaining daily to drive home to office, to take a bath, to eat and to sleep, to take care of your family.” He asked, “Do you think someone can spend that time to work for at least 6 months?” A user replied to this by saying, “You have obviously never worked in surgery. I routinely worked 100-120 a week. Did it at one job for 10 years. It’s why I’ve been working optional since my late 40s.” Also read | Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink Another criticised Musk’s remarks saying, “120-hour weeks? That's not a flex, it's a red flag. Overworked devs make mistakes. Quality > quantity in crypto. DOGE might be digging its own grave.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘DOGE digging its own grave’: Internet slams billionaire Elon Musk over DOGE’s long work hours remark

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has employed six young engineers despite them being inexperienced in government affairs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-speaks-to-trudeau-as-us-tariffs-ignite-trade-war-ontario-scraps-agreement-with-musks-starlink-8687500">Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk&rsquo;s Starlink</a>
The appointment of the young minds, all aged from 19 to 24, barely out of college and one still in college, has sparked concerns among experts about their qualifications to handle government work and access to sensitive government data.&nbsp;
Among the chosen young minds is an Indian-origin engineer who has worked as an intern at Meta, Akash Bobba.&nbsp;
As per a report by WIRED and the now-deleted LinkedIn profile of Bobba, he attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir.
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A social media user shared photos of four of the employed young engineers on X and wrote, "Wait my moot is running the treasury what."&nbsp;
Charis Zhang, an alumnus of UC Berkeley responded to the post narrating his interaction with Bobba and how he fixed his problem in a swift way.&nbsp;
"Let me tell you something about Akash. During a project at Berkeley, I accidentally deleted our entire codebase 2 days before the deadline. I panicked. Akash just stared at the screen, shrugged, and rewrote everything from scratch in one night&mdash;better than before. We submitted early and got first in the class. Many such stories. I trust him with everything I own," Zhang wrote on the social media platform X.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/feels-like-a-hostile-takeover-federal-employees-concerned-as-trump-aide-musks-allies-lock-them-out-of-key-systems-8682197">'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out&nbsp;of&nbsp;key&nbsp;systems</a>
In internal government records, Bobba is called an "expert" &nbsp;at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). He used to report to Amanda Scales, the new chief of staff who was previously involved in hiring at Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, the report by WIRED stated.&nbsp;
<h2>Other young minds&nbsp;</h2>
Along with Akash Bobba, Edward Coristine, Luke Farritor, Gautier Cole Killian, Gavin Kliger, and Ethan Shaotran were also hired by Musk's department.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366">Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending | World |  Bobba has attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir.

Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has employed six young engineers despite them being inexperienced in government affairs. Also read: Trump speaks to Trudeau as US tariffs ignite trade war; Ontario scraps agreement with Musk’s Starlink The appointment of the young minds, all aged from 19 to 24, barely out of college and one still in college, has sparked concerns among experts about their qualifications to handle government work and access to sensitive government data. Among the chosen young minds is an Indian-origin engineer who has worked as an intern at Meta, Akash Bobba. As per a report by WIRED and the now-deleted LinkedIn profile of Bobba, he attended UC Berkeley as part of the prestigious Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology programme, and has experience working as an intern at tech giants Meta and Palantir. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk A social media user shared photos of four of the employed young engineers on X and wrote, "Wait my moot is running the treasury what." Charis Zhang, an alumnus of UC Berkeley responded to the post narrating his interaction with Bobba and how he fixed his problem in a swift way. "Let me tell you something about Akash. During a project at Berkeley, I accidentally deleted our entire codebase 2 days before the deadline. I panicked. Akash just stared at the screen, shrugged, and rewrote everything from scratch in one night—better than before. We submitted early and got first in the class. Many such stories. I trust him with everything I own," Zhang wrote on the social media platform X. Also read: 'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems In internal government records, Bobba is called an "expert" at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). He used to report to Amanda Scales, the new chief of staff who was previously involved in hiring at Musk's artificial intelligence company, xAI, the report by WIRED stated. Other young minds Along with Akash Bobba, Edward Coristine, Luke Farritor, Gautier Cole Killian, Gavin Kliger, and Ethan Shaotran were also hired by Musk's department. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Akash Bobba, 22-year-old Indian-origin tech prodigy hired by Musk's DOGE?

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