Trump Heaps Praises On Musk — And The Billionaire Didn’t Even 'Need' The Job

“Thank you Elon, he's working very hard,” Trump said, recognising Musk’s efforts for DOGE.

Musk was seated in the gallery as Trump addressed lawmakers.

Source : X/@LangmanVince

During his address to Congress on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump took a moment to commend billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk for his role in leading a newly formed government initiative focused on efficiency and streamlining federal operations. Trump acknowledged Musk’s contributions to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an agency established under his administration to tackle bureaucratic inefficiencies and enhance the effectiveness of federal programs.

While specifics regarding the department’s agenda remain sparse, the initiative is expected to focus on identifying redundancies and optimising government operations.

#BREAKING Trump asks Congress to applaud Musk and cost-cutting program pic.twitter.com/QuNAtVTBwA

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 5, 2025

'Thank You Elon'

The Tesla and SpaceX chief was seated in the gallery as Trump addressed lawmakers. As applause erupted from Republican members of Congress, the president directed his appreciation toward Musk.

“Thank you Elon, he's working very hard,” Trump said, recognising Musk’s efforts. As the entrepreneur stood to acknowledge the recognition, Trump further expressed his gratitude, adding, “He didn’t need this. Thank you very much. We appreciate it.”

What Are DOGE's Objectives? Not Decided Yet

The Department of Government Efficiency marks a key component of Trump’s broader efforts to overhaul federal operations and reduce bureaucratic red tape. Although the full scope of DOGE’s objectives has yet to be outlined, the administration has signaled its intent to implement policies that ensure streamlined government functions.

Beyond his praise for Musk, Trump used his speech to highlight his administration’s commitment to strengthening the domestic production of critical minerals and rare earth elements, which are vital to industries such as defense and technology. Calling the initiative “historic action,” he underscored the importance of reducing reliance on foreign supply chains for these crucial materials.

By tapping Musk for a government role, the Trump administration appears to be emphasising an approach that integrates private sector expertise into federal decision-making. The president’s remarks reinforced that Musk’s involvement was entirely voluntary, a point he reiterated by stating, “He didn’t need this.”