Elon Musk’s dual role as a tech billionaire and a “special government employee” has sparked debates about potential conflicts of interest and blurred lines between his business ventures and government work. Musk’s involvement in projects like DOGE and various tech enterprises, while also advising the government, has raised concerns among ethics experts about maintaining public trust.

As Musk continues to interact with world leaders and make appearances at events like the Conservative Political Action Conference, questions arise about his shifting roles and potential conflicts. His recent meetings with leaders like Narendra Modi and his active presence in government-related discussions have drawn attention to the complexity of his influence.

Critics, including government ethics specialists, highlight the challenges of ensuring transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest when someone like Musk holds significant business interests alongside government advisory roles. The lack of clear disclosure about Musk’s activities within the Executive Office of the President adds to the uncertainty surrounding his responsibilities and decision-making processes.

Despite assurances from Musk and the White House about adhering to ethics guidelines, concerns persist about the extent of Musk’s influence and the potential impact on public interests. The ongoing debate over Musk’s role underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in navigating the intersection of business and government functions.