Elon Musk, once known primarily for his ventures in technology and automotive industries, has recently emerged as a controversial figure within the federal government. His rapid transition from a business mogul to an influential political actor has left many questioning the future of governmental integrity. Musk’s actions, which began with strategic dinners and financial support for specific political campaigns, have escalated into a significant overhaul of federal operations. The New York Times reports that Musk’s ambitions were fueled by a desire to dismantle regulatory frameworks that he perceived as obstacles to his business endeavors. This article delves into the early stages of Musk’s involvement in politics and the internal assistance that facilitated his rapid rise.

Musk's Strategic Entry into Politics

The initial steps taken by Musk to infiltrate the federal government were marked by discreet yet impactful maneuvers. In 2023, Musk attended a high-profile dinner hosted by fellow billionaire Chamath Palihapitiya, where he first proposed the idea of an advisory committee aimed at improving government efficiency. This committee, later named DOGE, was designed to streamline governmental processes, often at the expense of established regulations. Musk’s presence at this event was kept under wraps, indicating a calculated approach to gradually expand his influence without immediate public scrutiny.

This strategic entry into the political arena allowed Musk to establish connections with key figures who could facilitate his goals. By aligning himself with right-wing candidates like Vivek Ramaswamy, Musk positioned himself as a potential ally to those in power. His willingness to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to gain favor with influential politicians demonstrated a commitment to achieving his objectives through both financial and political means. The dinner served as a launching pad for Musk’s broader plans, setting the stage for more aggressive interventions in federal operations.

Internal Support and Accelerated Takeover

Once Musk had secured a foothold within the government, he relied heavily on internal allies to expedite his agenda. Key personnel, such as Amy Gleason, played crucial roles in facilitating Musk’s takeover. Gleason, a former USDS staffer, returned as a senior adviser during the Trump transition, bringing in young, inexperienced loyalists who would carry out Musk’s directives. These individuals embedded themselves across various agencies, gathering critical information on computer systems, contracts, and personnel lists. This insider knowledge provided Musk with the leverage needed to target departments and agencies that posed challenges to his business interests.

The collaboration between Musk and Trump insiders, including Stephen Miller and Russell Vought, further accelerated the pace of change. These relationships allowed Musk to exploit weaknesses in the federal system, enabling him to bypass legal and procedural hurdles. The dismantling of the Office of Personnel Management and the infiltration of the U.S. Digital Service exemplify Musk’s methodical approach to consolidating power. By targeting these key areas, Musk ensured that his influence extended beyond surface-level reforms, embedding structural changes that would be difficult to reverse. The speed and effectiveness of this takeover underscore the extent to which Musk’s wealth and connections have reshaped the federal landscape.