In a bold move, multiple appointees of former President Donald Trump have instructed federal workers to disregard Elon Musk’s directive, causing a stir within government agencies. Musk, a Trump deputy and head of the Department of Government Efficiency, sent an email demanding employees to share their weekly accomplishments, threatening resignation for non-compliance. However, leaders of various federal agencies pushed back, asserting that Musk is not their superior.

The Department of Defense, among others, made it clear that they will handle performance reviews internally, disregarding Musk’s email. While some agencies complied with Musk’s order, others, including the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, opted to ignore it, highlighting a divide in responses across government departments.

Musk’s controversial email is part of his ambitious effort to streamline the federal government, but concerns arise over the lack of evidence showing the effectiveness of his measures. The resistance to Musk’s directive reflects tensions between agency heads and the influential billionaire, with some viewing Musk’s actions as overstepping boundaries.

Despite the backlash, former President Trump publicly supported Musk’s approach, commending the initiative as a display of leadership. Labor groups have also taken action, seeking legal intervention to block the email demand, citing disruption to essential government functions.

As the debate unfolds, the clash between Musk’s directives and government protocols underscores the complexities of implementing drastic organizational changes within the federal system.