The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) set a deadline for state workers to reply to their request, but some Trump allies have advised staff to disregard it.
Musk’s initiative, aimed at reducing federal bureaucracy, requires workers to submit their recent achievements by the end of Monday or face job termination.
Nonetheless, key figures within the Trump administration have instructed their teams to ignore DOGE’s directive.
FBI Director Kash Patel recommended staff not to heed Musk’s demand, emphasizing that the FBI’s review processes should follow established procedures.
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. initially told his staff to follow Musk’s request, before later advising a pause on the matter until midday Monday.
Politicians and labor unions have criticized Musk, labeling his approach as “cruel,” arguing that slashing bureaucracy doesn’t have to involve harsh measures.
John Curtis, a Republican senator, suggested that Musk should implement his plans with more consideration for the workforce and the services they provide.
Everett Kelley, president of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), characterized Musk’s order as showing “utter disdain” for federal employees and vowed to challenge any unjust firings.
Trump has endorsed Musk’s aggressive measures to cut government expenses, with the administration having already dismissed thousands of state employees and significantly impacted USAID.
