Musks Ties To Doge Spark Regulator Fears Amid Trump Assurance

Concerns have been raised about potential conflicts of interest regarding Elon Musk’s involvement in DOGE, a project that could grant him significant influence over regulatory agencies. President-elect Donald Trump has brushed off these worries, asserting that Musk prioritizes the country above his companies.

Trump expressed his confidence in Musk’s integrity during a recent interview with Time Magazine, stating he is “one of the very few people” who would have the credibility to oversee such a project. However, Musk’s work on DOGE may raise ethical concerns, as it could create conflicts between his personal interests and his role in regulating agencies that impact his companies.

Musk has taken steps to address these concerns by deciding not to participate in the government, thereby avoiding certain divestment requirements and financial disclosure obligations. This decision allows him to maintain control over his vast fortune while still fulfilling his commitment to DOGE. By staying outside the government, Musk’s involvement with DOGE may also reduce scrutiny from regulatory agencies that have investigated his businesses.

DOGE has the potential to influence government agencies responsible for investigating Musk’s companies, including SpaceX and Tesla Inc. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) are among the agencies that have been scrutinized by Musk and his companies. Additionally, the Department of Justice has launched investigations into Tesla’s self-driving capabilities.

Despite these potential conflicts, Trump remains optimistic about Musk’s involvement in DOGE, citing his credibility and commitment to prioritizing the country over his company. Economists warn that reducing grocery prices could be challenging due to protectionist trade policies, which Trump also emphasized as an important goal.