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.
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>
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?

Elon Musk's influence over the federal government grows, leading to concerns from Democrats over potential conflicts of interest and power consolidation.

Elon Musk tightens grip on federal government, democrats raise alarms

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared on Monday (Feb 3) that he had been put in charge of the US aid agency, saying he would stop its "insubordination" to President Donald Trump's agenda.
"I'm the acting director of USAID," Rubio told reporters on a visit to El Salvador, saying that the agency had not answered questions and "that level of insubordination makes it impossible to conduct a sort of serious review."
In another development, the headquarters of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Washington, DC, was reportedly shut, with staff instructed to remain at home. This move comes as US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump&rsquo;s</a> administration takes further steps towards the agency&rsquo;s possible closure.
According to Devex, a media platform focused on global development, employees received emails late on Sunday night advising them not to report to work the next day. Devex obtained a copy of the email, which was sent to USAID staff based at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC.
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>
The message, apparently from &ldquo;senior leadership,&rdquo; was sent just a day after the agency&rsquo;s website was taken offline and shortly after its security director, John Voorhees, along with a deputy, were placed on &ldquo;administrative leave&rdquo; following an incident where they physically prevented the Doge team from accessing restricted areas.
Following this, Doge reportedly gained control over the building&rsquo;s access system, which allowed them to lock out staff and access emails. Additionally, the department sought personnel records and turnstile data, sources claimed.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-donald-trump-agrees-usaid-needs-to-be-shut-down-elon-musk-8686790" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be &lsquo;shut down&rsquo;: Elon Musk</a>
The Sunday night email stated, &ldquo;Agency personnel normally assigned to work at USAID headquarters will work remotely tomorrow, with the exception of personnel with essential on-site and building maintenance functions individually contacted by senior leadership.&rdquo;
<h2>Trump agrees to proposal to shut down USAID: Elon Musk</h2>
On Monday morning, Elon Musk, who has been tasked by Trump with reducing the size of the federal government, stated on X that the president had agreed to his proposal to shut down USAID. The agency oversees nearly $43 billion in food, humanitarian, and other aid across approximately 130 countries.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-near-for-american-aid-agencies-as-usaid-website-goes-offline-amid-trumps-freeze-on-foreign-aid-8684258">End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid</a>
Musk, a billionaire who has frequently labelled USAID a &ldquo;criminal organisation&rdquo; that is &ldquo;beyond repair,&rdquo; said that he had extensively discussed the shutdown plan with Trump, who confirmed his approval.
&ldquo;I actually checked with him a few times [and] said, &lsquo;Are you sure?&rsquo; And so we&rsquo;re shutting it down,&rdquo; Musk was quoted as saying by The Washington Post.
USAID is the world&rsquo;s largest single donor of humanitarian assistance. In the 2023 fiscal year, the US provided $72 billion in global aid. In 2024, the agency contributed 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the United Nations.
Trump has implemented a worldwide freeze on most US foreign aid as part of his &ldquo;America First&rdquo; policy, a decision that is already having significant repercussions globally. Democrats and other critics have strongly opposed the targeting of USAID by Musk and the Trump administration.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-halts-funding-to-bangladesh-under-usaid-after-trumps-90-day-pause-on-all-foreign-aid-8655603">US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid</a>
&ldquo;No one elected Elon Musk. As Donald Trump allows Musk to access people&rsquo;s personal information and shut down government funding, Republicans in Washington will also own the consequences. We must do everything in our power to push back and protect people from harm,&rdquo; wrote Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts on X.
Sources familiar with discussions regarding the agency&rsquo;s future informed Reuters on Friday that Trump and Musk are working on a plan to merge USAID and its current $42.8 billion humanitarian budget into the State Department.
(With inputs from agencies)

World:  Elon Musk, who has been tasked by Trump with reducing the size of the federal government, stated on X that the president had agreed to his proposal to shut down USAID. 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared on Monday (Feb 3) that he had been put in charge of the US aid agency, saying he would stop its "insubordination" to President Donald Trump's agenda. "I'm the acting director of USAID," Rubio told reporters on a visit to El Salvador, saying that the agency had not answered questions and "that level of insubordination makes it impossible to conduct a sort of serious review." In another development, the headquarters of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Washington, DC, was reportedly shut, with staff instructed to remain at home. This move comes as US President Donald Trump’s administration takes further steps towards the agency’s possible closure. According to Devex, a media platform focused on global development, employees received emails late on Sunday night advising them not to report to work the next day. Devex obtained a copy of the email, which was sent to USAID staff based at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk The message, apparently from “senior leadership,” was sent just a day after the agency’s website was taken offline and shortly after its security director, John Voorhees, along with a deputy, were placed on “administrative leave” following an incident where they physically prevented the Doge team from accessing restricted areas. Following this, Doge reportedly gained control over the building’s access system, which allowed them to lock out staff and access emails. Additionally, the department sought personnel records and turnstile data, sources claimed. Also read: President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk The Sunday night email stated, “Agency personnel normally assigned to work at USAID headquarters will work remotely tomorrow, with the exception of personnel with essential on-site and building maintenance functions individually contacted by senior leadership.” Trump agrees to proposal to shut down USAID: Elon Musk On Monday morning, Elon Musk, who has been tasked by Trump with reducing the size of the federal government, stated on X that the president had agreed to his proposal to shut down USAID. The agency oversees nearly $43 billion in food, humanitarian, and other aid across approximately 130 countries. Also read: End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid Musk, a billionaire who has frequently labelled USAID a “criminal organisation” that is “beyond repair,” said that he had extensively discussed the shutdown plan with Trump, who confirmed his approval. “I actually checked with him a few times [and] said, ‘Are you sure?’ And so we’re shutting it down,” Musk was quoted as saying by The Washington Post. USAID is the world’s largest single donor of humanitarian assistance. In the 2023 fiscal year, the US provided $72 billion in global aid. In 2024, the agency contributed 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the United Nations. Trump has implemented a worldwide freeze on most US foreign aid as part of his “America First” policy, a decision that is already having significant repercussions globally. Democrats and other critics have strongly opposed the targeting of USAID by Musk and the Trump administration. Also read: US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid “No one elected Elon Musk. As Donald Trump allows Musk to access people’s personal information and shut down government funding, Republicans in Washington will also own the consequences. We must do everything in our power to push back and protect people from harm,” wrote Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts on X. Sources familiar with discussions regarding the agency’s future informed Reuters on Friday that Trump and Musk are working on a plan to merge USAID and its current $42.8 billion humanitarian budget into the State Department. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Won’t allow insubordination’: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio becomes USAID acting director

Billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, Elon Musk, said on Monday (Feb 3) that President Donald Trump agrees that the US Agency for International Development needs to be &ldquo;shut down&rdquo;.
&ldquo;With regards to the USAID stuff, I went over it with (the president) in detail and he agreed that we should shut it down,&rdquo; Musk said in an X Spaces conversation.
Musk said that he discussed with Trump &ldquo;a few times&rdquo; if he wanted to shut down the agency and got confirmation from him.
"It became apparent that it's not an apple with a worm in it," Musk said. "What we have is just a ball of worms. You've got to basically get rid of the whole thing. It's beyond repair. ... We're shutting it down."
USAID works towards humanitarian relief and development across the world, dispensing billions annually.
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>
<h2>&lsquo;Criminal organisation&rsquo;</h2>
Earlier on Sunday (Feb 2), Musk attacked the agency, saying it is a &lsquo;criminal organisation&rsquo; and also suggested that it is wasteful spending. The billionaire leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is tasked to reduce government spending.
&ldquo;USAID is a criminal organisation,&rdquo; Musk wrote on his platform X in response to a video alleging USAID is involved in &ldquo;rogue CIA work&rdquo;.
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 another post, the biggest supporter of the Republican wrote, &ldquo;Did you know that USAID, using YOUR tax dollars, funded bioweapon research, including Covid-19, that killed millions of people?&rdquo;
Musk did not elaborate on the allegations.
<h2>&lsquo;Run by radical lunatics&rsquo;</h2>
Trump has also expressed a similar opinion on the matter, saying that USAID has &ldquo;been run by a bunch of radical lunatics.
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re getting them out... and then we&rsquo;ll make a decision (on its future),&rdquo; Trump said Sunday (Feb 2).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-fans-boo-us-national-anthem-after-trump-imposes-tariffs-8685916">Canadian fans boo US national anthem after Trump imposes tariffs</a>
The US president also showed support for the billionaire, telling reporters that he feels Musk is &ldquo;doing a good job&rdquo;.
<h2>Uncertainty for agency</h2>
Trump initially froze aid spending for three months. Although he issued waivers for food and other humanitarian aid to go on, aid workers have expressed that uncertainty looms over the future of the organisation as an independent agency.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nonsense-north-korea-slams-us-over-rogue-state-remark-in-first-public-denunciation-of-trump-administration-8685826">'Nonsense': North Korea slams US over 'rogue state' remark in first public denunciation of Trump administration</a>
On Saturday (Feb 1) the website of USAID went offline without giving any explanation.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Elon Musk said that he discussed with President Donald Trump “a few times” if he wanted to shut down the agency and got confirmation from him. 

Billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, Elon Musk, said on Monday (Feb 3) that President Donald Trump agrees that the US Agency for International Development needs to be “shut down”. “With regards to the USAID stuff, I went over it with (the president) in detail and he agreed that we should shut it down,” Musk said in an X Spaces conversation. Musk said that he discussed with Trump “a few times” if he wanted to shut down the agency and got confirmation from him. "It became apparent that it's not an apple with a worm in it," Musk said. "What we have is just a ball of worms. You've got to basically get rid of the whole thing. It's beyond repair. ... We're shutting it down." USAID works towards humanitarian relief and development across the world, dispensing billions annually. Also read | Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean ‘Criminal organisation’ Earlier on Sunday (Feb 2), Musk attacked the agency, saying it is a ‘criminal organisation’ and also suggested that it is wasteful spending. The billionaire leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which is tasked to reduce government spending. “USAID is a criminal organisation,” Musk wrote on his platform X in response to a video alleging USAID is involved in “rogue CIA work”. Also read | 'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems In another post, the biggest supporter of the Republican wrote, “Did you know that USAID, using YOUR tax dollars, funded bioweapon research, including Covid-19, that killed millions of people?” Musk did not elaborate on the allegations. ‘Run by radical lunatics’ Trump has also expressed a similar opinion on the matter, saying that USAID has “been run by a bunch of radical lunatics. “We’re getting them out... and then we’ll make a decision (on its future),” Trump said Sunday (Feb 2). Also read | Canadian fans boo US national anthem after Trump imposes tariffs The US president also showed support for the billionaire, telling reporters that he feels Musk is “doing a good job”. Uncertainty for agency Trump initially froze aid spending for three months. Although he issued waivers for food and other humanitarian aid to go on, aid workers have expressed that uncertainty looms over the future of the organisation as an independent agency. Also read | 'Nonsense': North Korea slams US over 'rogue state' remark in first public denunciation of Trump administration On Saturday (Feb 1) the website of USAID went offline without giving any explanation. (With inputs from agencies)

President Donald Trump agrees USAID needs to be ‘shut down’: Elon Musk

Elon Musk states that DOGE (Dogecoin) is causing delays in Treasury payments to U.S. contractors, raising concerns about cryptocurrency's impact on government financial systems and transactions.

Elon Musk claims DOGE halting treasury payments to US contractors

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Sunday (Feb 2) hilariously reacted to the State Department&rsquo;s &lsquo;trans&rsquo; search result suggesting &lsquo;Trains&rsquo; and said, &ldquo;That train has left&rdquo;.
A viral post on X has drawn attention to the State Department's website after a user claimed that searching for the word "trans" returned the suggestion, "Did you mean trains?"
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-releases-video-of-us-airstrike-on-is-targets-in-somalia-8684137">Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Elon Musk responds</h2>
The post quickly gained traction, with billionaire Elon Musk responding with a "🚂" emoji.
The post sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from mockery to observations about shifting government priorities. One user quipped, &ldquo;The government finally prioritizing infrastructure over identity politics&mdash;progress!&rdquo; Another joked about the ambiguity, writing, &ldquo;Did you mean transformers?&rdquo;
The reactions come amid a sweeping directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under President Donald Trump, which ordered federal agencies to remove gender-related references from government websites.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-near-for-american-aid-agencies-as-usaid-website-goes-offline-amid-trumps-freeze-on-foreign-aid-8684258">End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump bans transgender from US military</h2>
Earlier, Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well.
"To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk humorously addressed a State Department search mishap involving the word trans, jokingly suggesting trains as the intended search result.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Sunday (Feb 2) hilariously reacted to the State Department’s ‘trans’ search result suggesting ‘Trains’ and said, “That train has left”. A viral post on X has drawn attention to the State Department's website after a user claimed that searching for the word "trans" returned the suggestion, "Did you mean trains?" Also read | Trump releases video of US airstrike on IS targets in Somalia Elon Musk responds The post quickly gained traction, with billionaire Elon Musk responding with a "🚂" emoji. The post sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from mockery to observations about shifting government priorities. One user quipped, “The government finally prioritizing infrastructure over identity politics—progress!” Another joked about the ambiguity, writing, “Did you mean transformers?” The reactions come amid a sweeping directive from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) under President Donald Trump, which ordered federal agencies to remove gender-related references from government websites. Also read | End near for American aid agencies as USAID website goes offline amid Trump's freeze on foreign aid Trump bans transgender from US military Earlier, Trump signed an executive order to bar transgender people from the military on Monday (Jan 27). This was one of the four orders he signed aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington. The US president ordered the Pentagon to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programmes as well. "To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military. It's going to be gone," Trump said while addressing a retreat with House Republicans. (With inputs from agencies)

‘That train has left’: Musk reacts after US State Department's 'trans' search result suggests 'trains'

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team have been granted access to the US Treasury Department's payment systems, The New York Times reported.&nbsp;
It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system.&nbsp;
The official was later put on leave and then retired after the dispute.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366" rel="dofollow"> Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
US Senator Ron Wyden (Democrat) confirmed the news in a post on Bluesky, saying, "Sources tell my office that Treasury Secretary Bessent has granted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/doge" rel="dofollow">DOGE </a>*full* access to this system. Social Security and Medicare benefits, grants, and payments to government contractors, including those that compete directly with Musk's own companies. All of it."&nbsp;
The billionaire's allies, who were granted access to the payment systems, were reportedly made employees of the department and underwent government vetting and received security clearances.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-chief-musk-wants-to-delete-irs-and-people-agree-with-him-779792" rel="dofollow">DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him</a>
The Treasury Payments system controls more than USD 6 trillion annually and handles key functions including Social Security benefits, tax refunds and federal employee salaries.&nbsp;
As the Musk team has now access to the system, the Trump administration could restrict the disbursement of money approved by Congress for specific purposes, according to a New York Times report.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-and-ramaswamy-led-doge-plan-to-stop-work-from-home-for-federal-employees-777953" rel="dofollow">Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees</a>
<h2>Critics react&nbsp;</h2>
Democrats have criticised the move, stressing political interference in the Treasury's payment systems.&nbsp;
Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in a letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent said, "To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy."
Meanwhile, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) called for an investigation into the matter, pointing to the dangers of allowing Musk's team to oversee payments that affect millions of US citizens.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system. 

Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team have been granted access to the US Treasury Department's payment systems, The New York Times reported. It comes after a standoff between Musk's team and a top Treasury official David Lebryk, who refused to give access to the department's payment system. The official was later put on leave and then retired after the dispute. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom US Senator Ron Wyden (Democrat) confirmed the news in a post on Bluesky, saying, "Sources tell my office that Treasury Secretary Bessent has granted DOGE *full* access to this system. Social Security and Medicare benefits, grants, and payments to government contractors, including those that compete directly with Musk's own companies. All of it." The billionaire's allies, who were granted access to the payment systems, were reportedly made employees of the department and underwent government vetting and received security clearances. Also read: DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him The Treasury Payments system controls more than USD 6 trillion annually and handles key functions including Social Security benefits, tax refunds and federal employee salaries. As the Musk team has now access to the system, the Trump administration could restrict the disbursement of money approved by Congress for specific purposes, according to a New York Times report. Also read: Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees Critics react Democrats have criticised the move, stressing political interference in the Treasury's payment systems. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) in a letter to Treasury Secretary Bessent said, "To put it bluntly, these payment systems simply cannot fail, and any politically motivated meddling in them risks severe damage to our country and the economy." Meanwhile, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) called for an investigation into the matter, pointing to the dangers of allowing Musk's team to oversee payments that affect millions of US citizens. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk team now can access US Treasury's payment system? What does it mean

Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-nominated-for-nobel-peace-prize-for-free-speech-advocacy-billionaire-turns-down-offer-8678649" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer</a>
Since taking office just 11 days ago, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">President Donald Trump</a> has launched an extensive revamp of the government, dismissing hundreds of civil servants to reduce bureaucracy. 
Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the civilian government workforce, which consists of 2.2 million employees, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
Two officials, who spoke to Reuters anonymously due to fear of retaliation, revealed that some senior career employees at OPM have had their access revoked to certain data systems. These include the Enterprise Human Resources Integration database, which holds sensitive information such as dates of birth, Social Security numbers, home addresses, pay grades, appraisals, and length of service of government workers.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
"We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems," one official told Reuters. 
"That is creating great concern. There is no oversight. It creates real cybersecurity and hacking implications," they added.
While affected officials can still access functions such as email, they are now unable to view the extensive datasets covering all aspects of the federal workforce.
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>
<h2>'It feels like a hostile takeover'</h2>
A team comprising current and former Musk employees took charge of OPM on 20th January, the day of Trump&rsquo;s inauguration. One OPM employee told Reuters that sofa beds have been set up on the fifth floor of the agency&rsquo;s headquarters, which houses the director&rsquo;s office and requires either a security badge or an escort for access. The beds were installed so the team could work around the clock, one employee said. "It feels like a hostile takeover," the employee told Reuters.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the government workforce, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management.

Aides to Elon Musk, who have been put in charge of the US government's human resources agency, have reportedly blocked career civil servants from accessing computer systems containing the personal details of millions of federal employees, according to sources cited by Reuters. Also read: Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer Since taking office just 11 days ago, President Donald Trump has launched an extensive revamp of the government, dismissing hundreds of civil servants to reduce bureaucracy. Musk, tasked by Trump with cutting down the civilian government workforce, which consists of 2.2 million employees, has wasted no time in appointing allies to key positions within the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Two officials, who spoke to Reuters anonymously due to fear of retaliation, revealed that some senior career employees at OPM have had their access revoked to certain data systems. These include the Enterprise Human Resources Integration database, which holds sensitive information such as dates of birth, Social Security numbers, home addresses, pay grades, appraisals, and length of service of government workers. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts "We have no visibility into what they are doing with the computer and data systems," one official told Reuters. "That is creating great concern. There is no oversight. It creates real cybersecurity and hacking implications," they added. While affected officials can still access functions such as email, they are now unable to view the extensive datasets covering all aspects of the federal workforce. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom 'It feels like a hostile takeover' A team comprising current and former Musk employees took charge of OPM on 20th January, the day of Trump’s inauguration. One OPM employee told Reuters that sofa beds have been set up on the fifth floor of the agency’s headquarters, which houses the director’s office and requires either a security badge or an escort for access. The beds were installed so the team could work around the clock, one employee said. "It feels like a hostile takeover," the employee told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

'Feels like a hostile takeover': Federal employees 'concerned' as Musk allies lock them out of key systems

NASA thought it discovered a mysterious object! Turns out it’s just Elon Musk’s Tesla on a space trip

Tesla Roadster 

Misidentifications

Lack of Transparency

Increasing Space Activity

Potential Risks

Centralised Tracking System

Transparency

On January 2, astronomers identified an object as asteroid 2018 CN41, but later confirmed to be Elon Musk’s Tesla Roadster, launched in 2018 aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. 

Tesla CEO <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-meta-agreed-to-pay-25-mn-to-us-president-trump-8669842">Elon Musk</a> has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims.&nbsp;
Grims said that a petition for the Tesla and SpaceX CEO&rsquo;s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize had been submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for Musk's contribution to the human rights of freedom of speech and peace.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-turns-washingtons-doge-office-into-his-bedroom-8678366" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom</a>
<h2>'I don't want any prize'</h2>
However, Musk turned down the offer, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want any prizes," Musk responded.&nbsp;
The billionaire is known for his outspoken behaviour, and his views on censorship and on the controversial acquisition of X.&nbsp;
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>
How Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and its rebranding of X, has been seen as a revolutionary move in restoring speech.&nbsp;
As Musk took control of the X, he reversed bans on prominent conservative voices, rolled back content moderation policies and placed a strong emphasis on upholding free expression.&nbsp;
On the contrary, he has also witnessed criticism with some people accusing X of fostering information and harassment.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-news-today-joins-germany-afd-rally-germans-to-move-beyond-past-guilt-amid-nazi-salute-controversy-8654678" rel="dofollow">'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt'</a>
<h2>Netizens react&nbsp;</h2>
Musk's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize has raised criticism on social media.&nbsp;
Some of the people pointed out that being nominated for such an award, does not hold much weight, as anyone can propose a nominee, and it's a process filled with questionable choices each year.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, others said that platforms like Twitter, now X, still censor certain topics&mdash;citing the ongoing debates about terms like &ldquo;cisgender.&rdquo;
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: Billionaire Elon Musk turned down the offer made by European Parliament member Branko Grims, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for advocating free speech by European Parliament member Branko Grims. Grims said that a petition for the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize had been submitted to the Norwegian Nobel Committee for Musk's contribution to the human rights of freedom of speech and peace. Also read: Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom 'I don't want any prize' However, Musk turned down the offer, saying that he was not interested in receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. “I don’t want any prizes," Musk responded. The billionaire is known for his outspoken behaviour, and his views on censorship and on the controversial acquisition of X. Also read: Musk's decade-old rivalry with Sam Altman creates hitch between Tesla CEO and Trump How Musk acquired Twitter in 2022 and its rebranding of X, has been seen as a revolutionary move in restoring speech. As Musk took control of the X, he reversed bans on prominent conservative voices, rolled back content moderation policies and placed a strong emphasis on upholding free expression. On the contrary, he has also witnessed criticism with some people accusing X of fostering information and harassment. Also read: 'Make Germany great again': Elon Musk urges Germans to move beyond 'past guilt' Netizens react Musk's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize has raised criticism on social media. Some of the people pointed out that being nominated for such an award, does not hold much weight, as anyone can propose a nominee, and it's a process filled with questionable choices each year. Meanwhile, others said that platforms like Twitter, now X, still censor certain topics—citing the ongoing debates about terms like “cisgender.” (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk nominated for Nobel Peace Prize for 'free speech advocacy', billionaire turns down offer

Billionaire Elon Musk has taken his dedication to work in US President Donald Trump's administration, to new heights, as he is reportedly living in the Department of Government Efficiency's (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/doge" rel="dofollow">DOGE</a>) headquarters in Washington DC, according to the American magazine WIRED.&nbsp;
Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the &nbsp;Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House.&nbsp;
Musk also claimed that he was invited to spend the night in the White House's Lincoln Bedroom, however, he chose to stay in the DOGE headquarters.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-pulls-plug-on-funding-of-condoms-in-gaza-elon-musk-reacts-8664246" rel="dofollow">Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts</a>
Reportedly, he made this decision to avoid a more formal relationship with Trump's team, after Chief of Staff Susie Wiles denied him office space in the West Wing, Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;
The world's richest man has been constantly showing dedication and commitment toward newly-sworn in president Trump and his administration.&nbsp;
He is also known for his 'hardcore' work habits and for demanding the same work ethics from his employees.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-doge-sued-soon-after-trumps-inauguration-8639018" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk's DOGE sued soon after Trump's inauguration</a>
Musk's primary role with the DOGE is to reduce unnecessary government spending. 'DOGE is saving the Federal Government approx. $1 billion/day, mostly from stopping the hiring of people into unnecessary positions, deletion of DEI and stopping improper payments to foreign organizations, all consistent with the President&rsquo;s Executive Orders,' DOGE said in a statement. 'A good start, though this number needs to increase to &gt; $3 billion/day.'
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/doge-chief-musk-wants-to-delete-irs-and-people-agree-with-him-779792" rel="dofollow">DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him</a>
<h2>Musk slept at Tesla factory&nbsp;</h2>
During the early days of Tesla, Musk slept on the factory floor during busy days, saying that it allowed his employees to see their leader's dedication.&nbsp;
"This is important because if the team thinks their leader is off somewhere having a good time, drinking Mai Tais on a tropical island... they knew I was there, and that made a huge difference," he said.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

World, trending: Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the  Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House. 

Billionaire Elon Musk has taken his dedication to work in US President Donald Trump's administration, to new heights, as he is reportedly living in the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) headquarters in Washington DC, according to the American magazine WIRED. Tesla and X CEO Musk has been living at DOGE's offices in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, just some steps away from the White House. Musk also claimed that he was invited to spend the night in the White House's Lincoln Bedroom, however, he chose to stay in the DOGE headquarters. Also read: Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts Reportedly, he made this decision to avoid a more formal relationship with Trump's team, after Chief of Staff Susie Wiles denied him office space in the West Wing, Daily Mail reported. The world's richest man has been constantly showing dedication and commitment toward newly-sworn in president Trump and his administration. He is also known for his 'hardcore' work habits and for demanding the same work ethics from his employees. Also read: Elon Musk's DOGE sued soon after Trump's inauguration Musk's primary role with the DOGE is to reduce unnecessary government spending. 'DOGE is saving the Federal Government approx. $1 billion/day, mostly from stopping the hiring of people into unnecessary positions, deletion of DEI and stopping improper payments to foreign organizations, all consistent with the President’s Executive Orders,' DOGE said in a statement. 'A good start, though this number needs to increase to > $3 billion/day.' Also read: DOGE chief Musk wants to 'delete' IRS, and people agree with him Musk slept at Tesla factory During the early days of Tesla, Musk slept on the factory floor during busy days, saying that it allowed his employees to see their leader's dedication. "This is important because if the team thinks their leader is off somewhere having a good time, drinking Mai Tais on a tropical island... they knew I was there, and that made a huge difference," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk turns Washington's DOGE office into his bedroom

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza.
A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report.&nbsp;
The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-opens-for-social-media-influencers-under-trump-20-8663906">Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0</a>
<h2>Elon Musk reacts</h2>
Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas.
Musk took to his platform X and called the move the &ldquo;tip of the iceberg&rdquo;.
&ldquo;My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqx50c-qoplspvl-4o11o5s0">
My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329088040722724?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqxpnm-hhdf8z32-g1jroe3n">
Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦&zwj;♂️
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1884329854528807104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens.
To this, Musk replied, saying, &ldquo;Explains why all the condom orders were magnum."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m6hqynkf-fnsd30e9-3b4hhn95">
Elon Musk chimes in: &lsquo;Explains why all condom orders were &ldquo;Magnum&rdquo; 😂&rsquo; When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to &lsquo;condoms in Gaza&rsquo; goes far beyond satire. <a href="https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7">https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7</a>
&mdash; Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) <a href="https://twitter.com/WallSTQuon/status/1884419245381169236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money'</h2>
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a &ldquo;preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza".
&ldquo;That's what this pause is focused on&mdash;being good stewards of tax dollars,&rdquo; she added.
The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20.
"No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands.

The Donald Trump administration's recent freeze on all foreign aid included a surprising cut, of $50 million in US funding for condoms in Gaza. A White House official revealed that a memo from the Office of Management and Budget is set to temporarily suspend grants, loans, and federal assistance programmes while they undergo review, according to a Fox News report. The official, while speaking to the media outlet, said, "If the activity is not in conflict with the President's priorities, it will continue with no issues. This is similar to how HHS (Department of Health and Human Services) stopped the flow of grant money to the World Health Organisation after President Trump announced the US withdrawal from the organisation. Or how the State Department halted several million dollars going to condoms in Gaza this past weekend." Also read: White House opens for social media influencers under Trump 2.0 Elon Musk reacts Expressing doubts over the funding of condoms in Gaza by the previous government, Elon Musk, leader of the US Department of Government Efficiency, suggested that it might have ended up in the wrong hands, possibly with Hamas. Musk took to his platform X and called the move the “tip of the iceberg”. “My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets of Hamas, not actually condoms.” My guess is that a lot of that money ended up in the pockets Hamas, not actually condoms — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 "Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners," he said in another post. Yes, even in the unlikely event that the money was actually spent on condoms, we should NOT be sending US taxpayer money to buy condoms for foreigners 🤦‍♂️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 28, 2025 One of the users claimed the condoms were being used to transport improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary materials, potentially harming Israeli citizens. To this, Musk replied, saying, “Explains why all the condom orders were magnum." Elon Musk chimes in: ‘Explains why all condom orders were “Magnum” 😂’ When the absurdity meets policy: $50M of U.S. funds tied to ‘condoms in Gaza’ goes far beyond satire. https://t.co/Rr97QvX6U7 — Entrepreneur (@WallSTQuon) January 29, 2025 US Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calls it 'preposterous waste of money' White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, in her first briefing, deemed the move a “preposterous waste of taxpayer money," stating that "there was about to be $50 million taxpayer dollars that went out the door to fund condoms in Gaza". “That's what this pause is focused on—being good stewards of tax dollars,” she added. The move to pause all foreign aid came as an effect of US President Donald Trump's executive order, "Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid", which he signed after taking charge of the White House on January 20. "No new funds shall be obligated for new awards or extensions of existing awards until each proposed new award or extension has been reviewed and approved," Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an internal memo. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump administration pulls plug on 'funding condoms in Gaza', Elon Musk reacts

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible.
Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded"&nbsp;at the International Space Station (ISS) for&nbsp;so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission.
"The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X.
Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance
<h2 dir="ltr">NASA says the pair is not &lsquo;stranded&rsquo;</h2>
NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner.
NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not &ldquo;stranded,&rdquo; but that the Starliner didn&rsquo;t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth.
Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms
<h2 dir="ltr">Sunita Williams says &lsquo;she&rsquo;s trying to remember how to walk&rsquo;</h2>
Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring.
Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station.
She said, &ldquo;I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,&rdquo; reported People Magazine.
Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering
Williams admitted that she didn&rsquo;t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time.
"We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,&rdquo; she said.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA&rsquo;s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Elon Musk announced that President Trump requested his help to bring back astronauts, Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the space station promptly.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday (Jan 28) said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of the two Boeing Starliner astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who have been on the space station since June 2024, as soon as possible. Musk called out former President Joe Biden's administration as "terrible" for leaving the duo "stranded" at the International Space Station (ISS) for so long, even though NASA had already roped in SpaceX months ago to return both astronauts as part of its Crew-9 mission. "The @POTUS has asked @SpaceX to bring home the 2 astronauts stranded on the @Space_Station as soon as possible. We will do so. Terrible that the Biden administration left them there so long," Musk wrote on X. Also read | US President Trump offers federal employees to quit with eight months severance NASA says the pair is not ‘stranded’ NASA had earlier determined that the duo would come home on Dragon because of lingering uncertainties surrounding Starliner. NASA leadership repeatedly stressed on multiple forums that Wilmore and Williams were not “stranded,” but that the Starliner didn’t have enough assurances around it to support a crewed trip back to Earth. Also read | Trump to meet Netanyahu at White House on Feb 4, Israel PM's office confirms Sunita Williams says ‘she’s trying to remember how to walk’ Astronaut Sunita Williams, while speaking to students from Needham High School on January 27, said she is trying to remember how to walk as she awaits her return to Earth in spring. Williams, a native of Needham, a town in Norfolk County, Massachusetts, shared what it was like living on the space station. She said, “I've been up here long enough right now I've been trying to remember what it's like to walk. I haven't walked. I haven't sat down. I haven't laid down. You don't have to. You can just close your eyes and float where you are right here,” reported People Magazine. Also read | Maha Kumbh and stampedes: A look at the deadly history of world's largest religious gathering Williams admitted that she didn’t expect to be stuck in space for such a long time. "We knew that it would be probably a month or so, honestly. But the extended stay was just a little bit different,” she said. Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are expected to return in March 2025 as NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 mission has been rescheduled. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump orders Musk to bring astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore home

Elon Musk has caused waves once again, this time with his surprise video address to a rally of Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (Alternative für Deutschland) party on January 25. Watch in for more details!

Germany Snap Elections: Elon Musk tells Germans to rally support for far-right AfD

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