Is Elon Musk second-guessing his devotion to Trump? Netizens spot his ‘nervous’ reaction to question on balancing business and politics

Elon Musk's recent interview raised eyebrows as he struggled to explain balancing his business empire and new role in Trump's administration. Leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk's tense body language hinted at possible reg...

Reuters
Elon Musk, now heading the Department of Government Efficiency under Trump, appeared uncertain about balancing his varied business interests with his political role. His awkward response to questions about his commitment sparked widespread speculation and critique online, pointing to potential difficulties ahead.
Elon Musk, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump’s return to the White House, may not be as confident in his political entanglements as he once appeared. In a recent interview, the tech mogul was put on the spot about his ability to juggle his vast business empire while working for Trump’s administration— and his reaction has left people talking.

Musk, who now leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) under Trump, has been deeply involved in shaping policies aimed at cutting federal waste. However, when Fox News' Larry Kudlow directly asked if he had "given up" on his other ventures to focus on politics, Musk's body language spoke louder than his words.

With an awkward laugh, a deep sigh, and a noticeable pause, Musk responded, “With great difficulty.” His hesitation was glaring before he eventually followed up with a vague reassurance: “I’m just trying to make government more efficient, eliminate waste and fraud, and so far, we are making good progress.”


Social Media Erupts Over Musk’s ‘Telltale’ Body Language

The billionaire’s response quickly became a hot topic online, with many analyzing his nervous demeanor.

One Reddit user noted, “He slipped into his native accent, indicating he was nervous and off-guard.” Another added, “That blank stare and deep breath scream ‘regret.’”

Some questioned whether Musk was truly prepared for the challenges of government work, with one critic on Twitter writing, “It’s clear Musk has no real understanding of how public office works. He’s in over his head.”
ADVERTISEMENT

Others found amusement in his visible discomfort, with one user quipping, “Small but meaningful comfort that Elon Musk is probably having a terrible day.”


Can Musk Balance Trump’s Agenda and His Business Empire?

Musk’s extensive portfolio—including Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter)—has already shown signs of strain. Tesla’s stock has plummeted by 38% since Trump’s inauguration, and the company has been battling boycotts and protests tied to Musk’s political affiliations. Meanwhile, his leadership of DOGE has drawn skepticism, with critics questioning whether he can effectively manage both his corporate empire and his growing role in government.

Despite Musk’s apparent unease, Trump remains firmly in his corner. The former president recently dismissed Tesla’s ongoing troubles, promising to "look after his baby" and even vowing to buy a new Tesla himself.

ADVERTISEMENT
But with Musk now inextricably linked to the controversial administration, the bigger question remains: Is he having second thoughts, or is he just realizing that political power comes at a steep cost?

Download
The Economic Times Business News App
for the Latest News in Business, Sensex, Stock Market Updates & More.
READ MORE
ADVERTISEMENT

READ MORE:

LOGIN & CLAIM

50 TIMESPOINTS

More from our Partners

Loading next story
Business News › Magazines › Panache › Is Elon Musk second-guessing his devotion to Trump? Netizens spot his ‘nervous’ reaction to question on balancing business and politics
Text Size:AAA
Success
This article has been saved

*

+