Elon Musk’s growing involvement in the Trump administration has raised eyebrows and sparked intense scrutiny, as new revelations about his government email address have fueled concerns over his influence in federal decision-making. Despite Musk’s claims that his role is merely advisory, watchdog groups and critics argue that his presence in government operations, particularly through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), extends far beyond consultation.
Musk’s Official Government Email Address Uncovered
A recent Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request has unveiled Musk’s official government email address: erm71@who.eop.gov. The unconventional format, using initials and birth year instead of the standard first-and-last-name convention, has stirred questions about the secrecy surrounding Musk’s role, according to reports from The Intercept. Suspicions were further heightened when @TheOnlyEsta, a social media user, leaked an image listing Musk as an employee within DOGE, confirming his affiliation. Both Musk and White House officials have remained mum on the legitimacy of the leaked email, leaving the extent of Musk’s duties shrouded in mystery.
Watchdogs Ramp Up Investigations into Musk’s Government Role
Watchdog groups are intensifying pressure on DOGE, particularly regarding its involvement in the closure of federal agencies. FOIA requests have been filed to uncover Musk’s email communications with senior officials from agencies affected by DOGE’s restructuring efforts, including the Social Security Administration, the Department of Education, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as per reports from CNN. Chioma Chukwu, interim executive director of American Oversight, expressed strong concerns, stating, ‘You have to look at what DOGE is doing. There are blatant inconsistencies between its actions and what the administration claims it stands for.’ She further emphasized that DOGE is ‘wielding influence over federal agencies, undermining the government’s narrative that it merely advises the president.’
Legal Battles Mount Against DOGE’s Operations
In response to DOGE’s operations, several legal challenges have been launched. Donald Sherman, chief counsel at Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), has filed two lawsuits seeking more transparency, arguing that ‘the government has provided shifting and conflicting answers about Musk’s role, DOGE’s purpose, and the legal authority under which it operates.’ Another lawsuit, filed by the Project on Government Oversight (POGO) in February 2025, aims to establish DOGE as a federal agency subject to FOIA regulations, citing its self-contained structure and substantial independent authority. Sherman added, ‘Despite promising maximal transparency, DOGE has actively taken steps to shield its operations from public and congressional oversight.’
Global Outcry Over Musk’s Ties to Trump Administration
Musk’s deepening connections to the Trump administration have not gone unnoticed beyond US borders. The British Royal Society, where Musk is a fellow, is currently deliberating whether to expel him due to his involvement in Trump’s controversial government policies, including the slashing of US research funding, according to reports from The Guardian. A spokesperson for the Royal Society remarked, ‘The society is reviewing actions that could reaffirm its commitment to scientific integrity and counter ideologically motivated attacks on research and innovation.’
Tesla’s Stock Plunge and Trump’s Response
The fallout from Musk’s controversial government involvement has had significant financial repercussions. Tesla’s stock experienced a 5.6% plummet in a single day, with the company losing 45% of its value since December 2024, erasing 96% of post-election gains, as reported by CNN. Faced with mounting dissent, Trump’s administration is working to distance Musk from direct decision-making authority. A Politico report disclosed that Trump recently assured senior officials that Musk can only offer recommendations to federal agencies and does not have unilateral control over staffing or policy decisions, although Musk has been present in discussions.
Will Musk’s Government Influence Be Restrained?
Amidst juggling his responsibilities at Tesla, SpaceX, X (formerly Twitter), and his advisory role in DOGE, critics are raising concerns that Musk’s unchecked influence is unsustainable. As legal battles escalate and watchdog groups advocate for more transparency, pressure is building for the Trump administration to place limits on Musk’s involvement. Whether the White House will take further action remains uncertain, but with increased scrutiny comes the potential for Musk’s role in the US government to face significant restrictions in the near future.
