'I don't need Elon Musk for anything': Is Trump teasing something big?

Trump signals Musk may exit key government role amid tensions.

Amid speculation over Elon Musk’s possible exit from the Trump administration, President Donald Trump made it clear he doesn’t rely on the billionaire, despite Musk’s prominent role and financial backing during the 2020 election.

“Elon’s done a fantastic job,” Trump said. “I don’t need him for anything other than I happen to like him. This guy, this guy did a fantastic job.”

Musk, who was granted broad access to government operations through his role in tackling waste and fraud, has kept a lower profile since Republicans lost last week’s Wisconsin Supreme Court race. His reduced visibility has raised questions about his future involvement in the administration, particularly as he has been seen less frequently at the White House.

Amid accusations that Trump used the presidency to benefit Musk—including hosting a controversial Tesla showroom event—the president defended his actions. “I don’t need car. I actually bought one because they said, ‘oh, did you get a bargain?’ I said, ‘no, give me the top price.’ I paid a lot of money for that car,” Trump said. “But, honestly, he makes a great car... But I did that just as a sign of support.”

TRUMP: "Elon has done a fantastic job. I don't need Elon for anything other than I happen to like him. I'm telling you, this guy did a fantastic job. I bought one of his cars and I paid TOP PRICE, you know what I do with it? I let the people in the office drive around with it. pic.twitter.com/YJouFPdy3e Autism Capital(@AutismCapital) April 10, 2025

Trump also claimed Musk “hasn’t been treated properly,” referring to protests and violent incidents targeting the billionaire and his businesses.

According to reports, Trump has privately told aides that Musk will soon step back from his role in the administration. While Trump remains supportive of Musk’s work, both men have agreed that Musk will transition to a less public, supporting role.

According to a report in Politico, the move follows growing frustration among Trump allies over Musk’s unpredictability and political missteps—most notably, his support for a conservative judge who lost in Wisconsin. It marks a shift from earlier expectations that Musk was “here to stay” and might exceed the 130-day advisory limit.