In Video: LIVE: Trump holds Oval Office event with Elon Musk | NBC News

Trump Congratulates Musk on His Service to the Country

In a surprise visit to the Oval Office, President Trump held a press conference with Elon Musk, where he congratulated the tech billionaire on his service to the country.

Musk Leaves Government After 134 Days

Musk announced that his time as a special government employee had come to an end, which marked a limit of 134 days. However, he will remain an informal adviser to the President, continuing to provide guidance and support.

Doge Cuts Claimed to Save $160 Billion

Musk claimed that the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) had saved $160 billion in fraud and waste, a figure that has yet to be verified. The goal is to cut an additional $1 trillion, which Musk believes is achievable by the end of next year.

President Trump Praises Musk’s Work

Trump praised Musk’s dedication to the country, saying that he had devoted his time to the federal government, an unusual choice for someone of his stature. Musk’s work at the Department of Government Efficiency had helped to streamline government operations and cut waste.

Disagreements on Tax and Border Bill

Musk and Trump disagreed on the recent tax and border bill, with Musk expressing disappointment that it did not go far enough in cutting federal spending. Trump, on the other hand, praised the bill as a major achievement.

Relationship with Trump Deteriorating

Despite their close relationship, it is clear that their interests and political goals are diverging. Musk has clashed with Trump on issues like immigration and tariffs, which may have contributed to the formal role ending. However, their informal advising relationship will continue.

Fact-Checking and Unverifiable Claims

Throughout the press conference, Trump made several unverifiable claims, including a gas price claim that has been widely disputed. These claims are rarely subject to fact-checking, allowing the President to repeat them without consequence.

The Arc of the Relationship

The relationship between Musk and Trump has had its ups and downs, with Musk initially viewing Trump as a con man in 2016. However, they developed a close relationship over time, with Musk becoming a pseudo-vice president-like figure. The breakdown in their relationship over issues like tariffs and immigration has led to the formal role ending.