Republican senators voiced their concerns about Elon Musk’s approach to reducing federal spending and cutting government jobs during a private meeting with White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles on Wednesday.
They gathered in the Mansfield Room near the Senate chamber to discuss Musk’s aggressive cost-cutting measures, which they believe lack transparency.
Senators specifically pointed out the recent layoffs at the Department of Veterans Affairs, where 1,400 employees were fired.
They expressed frustration over Musk’s team not responding to their requests for information about the cuts.
Frustration Over Lack of Transparency
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) criticized Musk’s leadership, describing his methods as a “sledgehammer approach” to government efficiency.
She argued that a more strategic and thoughtful review of programs would be better than Musk’s drastic actions. Other GOP senators shared stories about how funding freezes and job cuts impacted their communities, particularly in VA hospitals.
They also expressed concerns about the lack of communication from Musk’s team, leaving them unsure of who to contact for more information.
Impact on Veterans Affairs
Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chair Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) is investigating the impact of firing 2,400 probationary VA employees on veterans’ services.
Although he was assured that direct care wouldn’t be affected, Moran is seeking more details from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to understand the full impact on federal services and benefits.
White House Response and Communication Issues
Susie Wiles acknowledged the senators’ concerns and encouraged them to reach out to her directly with any issues related to Musk’s reforms.
Some senators, like John Hoeven (R-N.D.), noted that while Musk’s team of engineers is identifying areas to cut costs, they are not good at communicating their decisions.
Wiles agreed on the need for better coordination between Musk’s team, federal agencies, and Congress.
Musk Defends His Actions
During Trump’s first Cabinet meeting, Musk defended his controversial email demanding federal workers report their accomplishments.
Although not an official Cabinet member, Musk was allowed to speak first and at length. President Trump eventually intervened, asking Musk to let the Cabinet members speak as well.
Musk’s appearance followed a memo from OMB and OPM ordering agencies to prepare for mass layoffs by March 13 as part of a governmentwide reduction.
Call for a Balanced Approach
Some Republican senators believe Musk should take a step back and allow Cabinet officials to lead the decision-making process on layoffs.
They argue that Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) should serve as an advisory body rather than the primary decision-maker.
Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) suggested that DOGE’s role should evolve to support Senate-confirmed agency heads instead of acting independently.
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Concerns About Leadership and Accountability
Senator Tillis raised concerns about leadership conflicts, emphasizing that Cabinet officials should be seen as the ultimate decision-makers within their agencies.
He warned that if Musk’s team continues to lead policy changes without coordination, it could undermine the authority of Cabinet members. Tillis also stressed the importance of balancing cost-cutting with maintaining service levels for U.S. citizens.
Feedback from Constituents
Republican senators are receiving complaints from their constituents who are worried about losing federal grants or jobs due to Musk’s aggressive budget cuts.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) urged Musk to handle workforce reductions respectfully, emphasizing the need for compassion during such processes.
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