Elon Musk’s ‘Proof’ of Government Waste Is in the Pudding
Earlier this week, Elon Musk appeared at the Oval Office with President Donald Trump; Musk’s son, X Æ A-Xii, even made an appearance. Citing a desire for “maximum transparency,” the tech billionaire discussed the efforts of his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to identify and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within the federal government.
Here was how The New York Times described the press conference: “In Oval Office, Musk Says Without Proof That Bureaucracy Is Rife With Fraud.”
The New York Times says “Musk Asserts Without Proof That Bureaucracy Is Rife With Fraud.” Seriously? The GAO — under Biden — estimated last year that we are losing $233-$521 billion *per year* to fraud. Guys, it’s right there. Why do you continue with this… fraud? SMH pic.twitter.com/p2ceZhNLuQ
— Michael Shellenberger (@shellenberger) February 12, 2025
Later, the newspaper tweaked the headline to read: “At Oval Office, Musk Makes Broad Claims of Federal Fraud Without Proof.”
To be maximally charitable to the Times, they did not actually state that claims of federal fraud are baseless, just that Musk failed to proffer examples. Musk did cite examples of government processes clearly in need of updating, including the infamous, inefficient limestone mine where government employee papers are kept—something that sounds completely ridiculous but actually exists.
When they are digging too deep and too greedily in the limestone mine where the federal employees’ paperwork is kept… pic.twitter.com/GDcHIS2klS
— Robby Soave (@robbysoave) February 12, 2025
Even so, the Times is clearly treating the claim tha
Article from Reason.com
The Reason Magazine website is a go-to destination for libertarians seeking cogent analysis, investigative reporting, and thought-provoking commentary. Championing the principles of individual freedom, limited government, and free markets, the site offers a diverse range of articles, videos, and podcasts that challenge conventional wisdom and advocate for libertarian solutions. Whether you’re interested in politics, culture, or technology, Reason provides a unique lens that prioritizes liberty and rational discourse. It’s an essential resource for those who value critical thinking and nuanced debate in the pursuit of a freer society.
