Elon Musk sparked online backlash after appearing at a cabinet meeting with a visible "top secret" note placed in front of him, prompting critics to accuse him of mocking the seriousness of national governance.
In recent months, Musk has taken on a high-profile advisory role in President Donald Trump's administration, particularly focusing on budget efficiency through the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
His appointment came after Musk made headlines for allegedly being slated to receive classified military briefings about potential U.S. strategies in a conflict with China, as reported by the New York Times in March 2025. The article raised questions about Musk's dual loyalties due to his extensive business ties with China and ongoing defense contracts with the Pentagon.
While the White House dismissed the story, concerns about transparency and conflicts of interest persisted. On Thursday, Musk appeared at a cabinet meeting with top Trump officials, where cameras captured a handwritten note in front of him that read "top secret."
The phrase, prominently displayed and clearly visible to the media, was quickly interpreted by many as a sarcastic jab at the controversy surrounding his access to sensitive information. The moment went viral online, with users accusing Musk of treating the administration like a game.
"It's all a big game with Elon. It has nothing to do with saving America. Nothing," one post read.
It's all a big game with Elon. It has nothing to do with saving America. Nothing.
— Chrisite (@Chrisite5) April 12, 2025
"Elon knows the games the media plays, so he decided to mess with them at the cabinet meeting by writing "Top Secret" on his note pad, knowing they would be snapping pics of his notes / phone," another user added.
Elon knows the games the media plays, so he decided to mess with them at the cabinet meeting by writing "Top Secret" on his note pad, knowing they would be snapping pics of his notes / phone. 😂 https://t.co/sKFlCfACVt pic.twitter.com/4fJUvUvh1G
— Owen Sparks (@OwenSparks_) April 11, 2025
The "top secret" note, while seemingly harmless, has amplified doubts about his commitment and credibility. His departure, if it happens, could signal a shift in Trump's strategy—or simply the end of a controversial experiment in merging tech celebrity with federal governance.
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