Expert comment: Elon Musk leaving role in the Trump administration

Gordon commented: “Musk's announcement that he will be stepping back from his DOGE work - often problematically described as his "government duties" - should come as no surprise. In many respects, the surprise is that Musk has lasted so long in Trump's close orbit.

“Even in the aftermath of Trump's victory last November and before the famous inauguration scenes, concerns were being raised about Musk's erratic behaviour and his ability (or otherwise) to fit in with a Mar-a-lago scene that has been constructed around the aura of Trump. But after riding high on somewhat speculatively claims about the scale and effectiveness of the DOGE cost-cutting interventions, ultimately it is questions about money that have pulled Musk away in multiple ways.

“While Tesla stock prices are seeing a recovery, there is still the reality that EVs need to be sold and the 49% decline in European sales last month compared to the previous year is more than a polite note that the brand - so closely tied to its CEO - is suffering.

“Across at Twitter, its estimated value reveals a continuous - and potentially terminal - decline. But it’s Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" that is the final straw, with Musk disagreeing about the benefits or beneficiaries of the proposed taxes and spending. In stepping back from political donations, Musk seems to be signalling a return to his more contrarian politics that, in turn, has previously helped his brands to appear edgy and appealing to consumers.”