Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt rejects Elon Musk’s claims that Trump’s fiscal plan will increase the deficit and highlights the initiative’s $1.6 trillion savings.

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On Thursday, the White House addressed the recent criticisms made by Elon Musk, former director of the Government Efficiency Department (DOGE), against President Donald Trump’s new fiscal plan. Official spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated during a press conference that while the administration values Musk’s work, it categorically denies that the project will increase the budget deficit, as the entrepreneur claimed.

Leavitt highlighted Musk’s efforts in combating waste, fraud, and abuse within the government apparatus, emphasizing that these efforts will continue despite differences over fiscal policy. “We thank him for pushing DOGE and his work in cutting waste, fraud, and abuse, which will carry on,” the spokesperson said. She also stressed that the fiscal plan, known as the “Great and Beautiful Bill,” will generate an estimated $1.6 trillion in savings for public coffers.

In response to Musk’s accusation that the initiative would increase the deficit and undermine government efficiency, the White House maintained that the proposal is a responsible and necessary measure to strengthen the economy. Leavitt underscored that President Trump is “very proud” of the plan and hopes the Senate will approve it soon for prompt implementation.

When asked about Musk’s replacement at DOGE, the spokesperson avoided specific details, noting that the responsibility to eliminate waste lies with the entire presidential cabinet and the president himself.

As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President @realDonaldTrump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending.

The @DOGE mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 29, 2025

Musk confirmed his departure from the government via a social media message, where he thanked the opportunity to work on reducing public spending but made clear his disagreement with the current fiscal direction.

The White House’s response reflects the Trump administration’s firmness in defending its fiscal package amid internal criticism, reaffirming its commitment to austerity and administrative efficiency despite disagreements expressed by figures linked to its own government.

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