The vast and opaque power of Elon Musk is only growing as he sets his sights on new targets, backed by the full endorsement of former President Donald Trump. The head of Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency is now closing in on his latest objective: the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), an independent government agency established to protect Americans from the Wall Street excesses that contributed to the Great Recession.
Employees of the CFPB were abruptly notified on Sunday afternoon that their Washington, DC, headquarters would be closed for the week. Staff were instructed to work remotely following the appointment of Trump’s budget chief, Russell Vought, as the acting director. Vought wasted no time in shifting the agency’s priorities, instructing employees to cease efforts focused on combating financial abuse.
Musk, ever the provocateur, marked the occasion with a blunt message on X: “CFPB RIP.”
This development mirrors the fate of the US Agency for International Development (USAID), once a cornerstone of American foreign aid and democracy promotion. Under Musk’s influence, USAID has been dramatically downsized. Trump, for his part, dismissed the agency as “crazy” and “a big scam,” signaling his administration’s disdain for traditional government institutions.
While Trump’s aggressive use of executive power has sparked constitutional concerns, Musk’s role represents an even more extraordinary breach of norms. As a private citizen, Musk wields unprecedented authority: firing or suspending government employees, dismantling key federal agencies, and accessing sensitive data of millions of Americans—all without any formal accountability.
Although multiple courts have issued temporary injunctions against some of Trump and Musk’s initiatives, the broader battle over executive power is only beginning. Legal experts predict a landmark confrontation in the Supreme Court, where the conservative majority often supports expansive presidential authority.
Despite speculation that Trump and Musk’s volatile personalities might lead to a public falling-out, their alliance appears stronger than ever. Trump publicly praised Musk during a Super Bowl interview on Fox, stating, “I’ve had great help from Elon Musk, who’s been terrific.” When asked if he trusted Musk, Trump replied, “Trust Elon? Oh, he’s not gaining anything. In fact, I wonder how he can devote the time to it. He’s so into it.”
Their partnership is rooted in shared values: a mutual disdain for regulatory constraints and an appetite for disrupting established systems. Musk’s political activities, including his support for far-right European parties, align with Trump’s anti-establishment agenda.
With the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon, Republicans are eager to maintain Musk’s favor. His financial backing played a crucial role in recent GOP victories, and his influence over conservative media platforms amplifies the party’s message.
Trump’s rapid-fire executive actions and relentless media presence seem to be paying off. A CBS News poll released on Sunday shows that 53% of Americans approve of his performance—a notable increase from his first term. Seventy percent of respondents believe Trump is fulfilling his campaign promises, which include hardline immigration policies, bans on transgender athletes in women’s sports, and the dismantling of federal bureaucracies.
However, the poll also reveals vulnerabilities. Two-thirds of Americans feel the administration isn’t doing enough to lower prices, a top concern for voters. Only 28% believe Trump’s policies will reduce costs, and his proposed tariffs on steel and aluminum risk exacerbating inflation.
While attacking federal institutions appeals to Trump’s base, it could alienate moderates if essential services are compromised. Historically, new presidents often overreach, and Trump’s aggressive tactics may backfire if they disrupt popular government programs.
Musk’s growing power within the Trump administration has left even top officials and Republican leaders deferential. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem openly supported the idea of dismantling FEMA, despite its critical role in disaster response. When questioned about Musk’s access to private data, Noem dismissed concerns, stating, “The president has authorized him to have access to that.”
Similarly, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz defended Musk’s cuts to USAID programs, arguing that aid should align with Trump’s foreign policy objectives. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth welcomed Musk’s involvement in Pentagon operations, despite potential conflicts of interest stemming from SpaceX’s federal contracts.
House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan praised Musk’s efforts to “expose waste and fraud,” reflecting the GOP’s embrace of Musk as an agent of disruption.
Despite Trump and Musk’s current momentum, their actions are setting the stage for an unprecedented constitutional showdown. The administration’s attempts to bypass congressional authority, dismantle legally established agencies, and grant unchecked power to a private citizen raise profound legal questions.
While Trump enjoys strong support from his base, the erosion of democratic norms and the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals could have lasting consequences. As the courts weigh in and political opposition mounts, the outcome of this battle will shape the future of American governance.
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