The Trump administration is defending Elon Musk's dual role as a government official and a major federal contractor, insisting that he will "excuse himself" if any conflicts of interest arise.
During a White House press briefing Wednesday, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to concerns about Musk's position as both a "special government employee" and the head of multiple companies receiving billions in federal contracts. Leavitt reiterated that Musk has followed all applicable laws and that the administration trusts him to step aside from any situations where conflicts may emerge.
"If Elon Musk comes across a conflict of interest with the contracts and the funding that DOGE is overseeing, then Elon will excuse himself from those contracts," Leavitt said, referring to Musk's role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
President Trump also defended Musk earlier in the week, saying, "Elon can't do and won't do anything without our approval, and we'll give him the approval where appropriate; where not appropriate, we won't." He added that Musk has a "good natural instinct."
"Where we think there's a conflict or there's a problem we won't let him go near it," Trump stated.
Musk, a major Trump donor in the 2024 election, has taken on an active role in the administration, prompting criticism from ethics experts who argue that his influence—and his company's federal contracts—pose clear conflicts of interest. However, as a special government employee, Musk is subject to fewer disclosure and ethics requirements than full-time federal officials, according to NBC News.
Despite an apparent lack of safeguards, the White House maintains that Musk is operating within the law and will manage any potential conflicts appropriately.
© 2025 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
