Karoline Leavitt: Musk here to stay as ‘steward’ of taxpayer money

Jenny GoldsberryFebruary 6, 2025

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Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, defended Elon Musk against criticism regarding his new role as⁤ head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Leavitt emphasized that Musk’s ⁢task‍ is to streamline government operations to ensure that taxpayer money is used effectively. This follows his recent appointment aimed ‍at reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and focusing on the interests of the American ‌people. Critics, particularly from organizations ‍affected by budget cuts,‌ such as the U.S. Agency for International Advancement, have raised concerns over ⁣Musk’s involvement.Though, Leavitt maintains that a meaningful portion of Americans supports reducing foreign aid, citing a poll where 56% of respondents favored freezing such programs. Musk has humorously addressed criticisms on social media, showcasing his nonchalant attitude towards the backlash. both Leavitt and Musk appear committed to their goal of reforming government spending.

Karoline Leavitt says Elon Musk is here to stay as ‘steward’ of taxpayer money

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed criticisms of Department of Government Efficiency head Elon Musk.

Two weeks have passed since Musk began his volunteer position with DOGE to create a “lean team of small-government crusaders” who work closely with the White House Office of Management and Budget. Musk’s involvement, while considered a special government position, has upset some proponents of the agencies in his crosshairs, such as the U.S. Agency for International Development, which had its headquarters shut down this week.

“What President Trump and Elon Musk and this entire administration is trying to do is make our bloated bureaucracy here in Washington run like a profitable business,” Leavitt said. “Every agency has been tasked with going line by line and ensuring the American taxpayers’ money is aligned with the American people’s interest. So the Democrats can hoot and holler all they want. This White House will stay committed to delivering on President Trump’s priorities and being good stewards of hardworking American people’s tax dollars.”

Leavitt claimed that a “vast majority of Americans” support cutting foreign aid. A Reuters/Ipsos poll from earlier this week found that 56% of respondents supported freezing foreign assistance programs.

Musk has largely responded to criticism of his department with jokes. He posted a picture to his X account Wednesday of a shot of Fox News with a lower-third graphic that read: “DOGE Derangement Syndrome.” Musk captioned the photo simply: “lmao.”