President Donald J. Trump has reportedly informed his inner circle, including key Cabinet members, that Elon Musk, the tech billionaire steering the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), will soon step back from his prominent role in the administration.

According to Politico, Trump hinted that Musk’s departure is imminent as he refocuses on his sprawling business empire—Tesla, SpaceX, and X—leaving behind a polarizing tenure that has both dazzled and frustrated the White House.

Musk’s DOGE initiative, launched to slash federal spending and streamline bureaucracy, has been a cornerstone of Trump’s second term. Official statements suggest Trump remains pleased with Musk’s efforts, which have included laying off thousands of federal workers and targeting agencies for cuts. Yet, beneath the surface, tensions simmer.

Administration insiders have grown wary of Musk’s erratic style and unpredictable decision-making, increasingly viewing him as a political liability. His high-profile moves—like shuttering USAID and pushing for a $1 trillion deficit reduction—have sparked lawsuits and public backlash, complicating Trump’s agenda.

Despite the friction, Musk’s exit appears driven more by his own priorities than a White House push. With Tesla facing sales slumps and SpaceX eyeing Mars contracts, the billionaire’s 130-day stint as a “special government employee” nears its end.

Trump has praised Musk’s intellect, but acknowledged, “He’s got a big company to run.” As Musk prepares to depart, questions linger: Will DOGE survive without its visionary head, or will Trump’s efficiency crusade lose steam? For now, Washington braces for a quieter, yet uncertain, chapter.