Tensions escalated on Fox News Channel’s “The Five” when co-host Jessica Tarlov, known for her progressive views, accused Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), of corruption. She implied that he was benefiting financially from his oversight of businesses linked to DOGE. In response, Elon effectively dismantled her allegations by providing a clear explanation of DOGE’s operations.
To provide context, as the leader of DOGE, Elon is tasked with collaborating with various federal agencies to eliminate fraud and waste in government spending, ultimately aiming to save taxpayers’ money. This role occasionally intersects with the agencies that regulate Tesla. During his appearance on “The Five” on April 1, Tarlov seized this connection to level accusations against him.
Initially, Tarlov made a lighthearted remark about the domestic protests against Tesla, claiming she had not followed the example of liberal activists who set fire to Teslas owned by her sister. She quipped, “Well, I’m a liberal Tesla enthusiast. My sister has two in her family, so I haven’t thrown any Molotov cocktails lately.”
Tarlov then suggested that Elon was engaged in corrupt practices through DOGE, referencing the federal agencies that have been scrutinizing Tesla, which he now oversees. She questioned, “I want to discuss what DOGE has been doing. You’ve been making cuts to several agencies that are currently investigating and battling your companies, yet you continue to receive billions in government contracts. Tesla benefits from billions in subsidies. How do you justify that to the American public?” Elon countered her claims by emphasizing the transparency of DOGE, stating, “Everything that DOGE does is an open book. We are, I believe, the most transparent organization in government. Every action taken by DOGE is documented on the DOGE.gov website and is also available on the X handle.”Elon Musk stated that individuals who have concerns regarding DOGE’s actions and suspect corruption are welcome to express their grievances. He remarked, “If anyone has a concern about any of those actions, they can bring it up. They can raise it. I want to emphasize that we sometimes make mistakes. No one is perfect. We will occasionally err, but we will act swiftly to rectify any errors. Given the intense scrutiny I am under, it is virtually impossible for me to engage in any wrongdoing, nor do I have any desire to do so.”
He further asserted that DOGE’s commitment to “radical transparency” distinguishes it and assures that any errors made are not indicative of corruption. He explained to Tarlov, “In this instance, we practice radical transparency. We are open about our mistakes. Many are reluctant to acknowledge their errors, but we are not.”
In conclusion, Musk contended that regardless of the opinions expressed by individuals like Tarlov, the American public supports DOGE’s objectives. He stated, “We want to stress that we address issues promptly and strive to act in the best interest of American taxpayers and citizens. I believe history will affirm that our actions and initiatives are beneficial for the strength and future of America.”
