Elon Musk's power keeps growing, targeting the federal government shredding machine -

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February 10, Washington: In a significant move, President Donald Trump has intensified efforts to dismantle federal agencies, with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as the latest target. The CFPB, established after the 2008 financial crisis to protect consumers, has been ordered to cease most operations and close its Washington, D.C., headquarters from February 10 to 14. Russell Vought, the newly appointed director of the Office of Management and Budget, directed the suspension of proposed rules and ongoing investigations, effectively halting the agency’s activities.

This action aligns with the administration’s broader initiative to reduce federal regulation, a campaign significantly influenced by Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk’s role involves auditing federal agencies to identify and eliminate wasteful spending. His efforts have already led to the dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), an agency that has promoted democracy and provided aid globally for decades.

The Trump-Musk partnership has raised concerns about the concentration of power and the potential erosion of democratic institutions. Critics argue that Musk’s unelected position grants him unprecedented influence over government operations, with minimal accountability. The abrupt suspension of the CFPB’s functions has drawn criticism from consumer advocates, who warn that such actions could leave consumers vulnerable to financial abuses.

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Despite these concerns, the administration defends its approach as a necessary measure to streamline government operations and eliminate inefficiencies. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, for instance, has advocated for dismantling the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in its current form, suggesting that disaster response should be managed locally rather than federally.

The collaboration between Trump and Musk reflects a shared disdain for regulatory constraints and a commitment to disrupting established federal structures. While this alliance currently advances their mutual objectives, analysts caution that the convergence of two strong-willed personalities could lead to future conflicts. Moreover, the administration’s aggressive actions against agencies like the CFPB may face legal challenges, potentially setting the stage for a significant constitutional confrontation over the limits of presidential power.