This paper examines the controversies and internal power struggles within the Trump administration triggered by Musk’s leadership of the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE). The article notes that Musk’s radical management practices—such as enforcing mandatory weekly reports—to drive governmental efficiency reform have encountered skepticism and resistance from various government departments, personnel management authorities, and legal bodies. His management style clashes with traditional governmental power structures and legal norms, leading cabinet members and some Republican lawmakers to express dissatisfaction by arguing that his actions constitute an overreach of authority that undermines their own positions. Moreover, Musk’s ambiguous role and identity within the government have spurred questions regarding the legitimacy of his power. Despite facing substantial opposition, Trump continues to rely on Musk as a “disruptor” to break conventional practices and advance the conservative agenda in pursuit of long-term political objectives. However, these unconventional measures have also precipitated administrative disarray and institutional risks, thereby challenging the balance of power and stability within the administration.

Furthermore, the article explores the intrinsic tensions within Trump’s governing coalition. While Musk’s radical initiatives contribute to government reform, they have also raised concerns among cabinet members and certain Republican lawmakers, who fear that indiscriminate staff reductions may compromise public services and the execution of governmental functions, while simultaneously questioning the legitimacy of Musk’s management style. In this context, Trump is compelled to strike a balance between endorsing Musk’s reforms and maintaining internal governmental stability—his tacit acceptance of these tensions serving to underscore his central role and ultimate decision-making authority. This complex interplay of internal dynamics not only energizes the administration’s reform efforts but also sows the seeds of potential instability, with profound implications for the future governance and political ecology of the United States federal government.

Translated by Yuyao ZHAO

Full text in Chinese available at:

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/9Sxh6TR9idh18GpShTDcFQ