Elon Musk has officially concluded his controversial 130-day tenure as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a role he assumed under President Donald Trump. His departure has been marked by widespread criticism, with many labeling it a “disgrace” due to the tumultuous nature of his leadership

 A Chaotic Tenure

Musk’s time at DOGE was characterized by aggressive cost-cutting measures, including the termination of over 200,000 federal jobs and the dismantling of agencies such as USAID and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). These actions were intended to streamline government operations but faced significant backlash for their execution and impact on public services.

His approach to governance was unconventional, involving direct interventions and a hands-on management style that often clashed with established protocols. This led to legal challenges, internal resistance, and public protests. Notably, a failed initiative to address Social Security fraud further hindered the agency’s operations.

 Public Backlash and Global Protests

Musk’s actions sparked protests not only across the United States but also internationally. Demonstrations were held in countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Portugal, with participants voicing their opposition to his policies and influence. In the U.S., protests often targeted Tesla properties, symbolizing the public’s discontent with Musk’s leadership.

A particularly controversial moment occurred during Trump’s second inauguration, where Musk was seen making a gesture interpreted by many as a Nazi or fascist Roman salute. This incident drew widespread condemnation and further damaged his public image.

 Financial and Corporate Consequences

The fallout from Musk’s political involvement extended to his business ventures. Tesla’s stock experienced a significant decline, with shares falling over 40% amid slumping sales and increased competition. The company’s once-dominant position in the electric vehicle market was challenged, particularly in Europe, where sales saw a sharp drop.

Additionally, Musk’s net worth took a substantial hit, with reports indicating a loss of nearly $90 billion in a short period. This decline was attributed to factors such as weak demand for electric vehicles and political controversies surrounding his actions.

 Looking Ahead

As Musk steps away from his role at DOGE, he plans to refocus on his business ventures, including Tesla and SpaceX. The future of DOGE remains uncertain, with speculation about potential leadership changes and the agency’s direction. Musk’s brief foray into politics has left a lasting impact, serving as a cautionary tale about the complexities of translating business acumen into public sector governance.