Former U.S. President Donald Trump expects Elon Musk to uncover “hundreds of billions” in fraud at the Pentagon as part of an audit Musk will lead. In a Super Bowl interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier, Trump said he would soon direct Musk to examine the Department of Education before turning to the military.
With the Pentagon’s budget nearing $1 trillion annually, Trump believes significant waste exists. In December, then-President Joe Biden authorized $895 billion in defense spending for the fiscal year.
Musk, a White House-designated special government employee, has been tasked with reducing the federal workforce. His aides have sought access to government computer systems, raising legal and security concerns. Critics argue that these efforts could expose classified information and dismantle agencies without congressional oversight.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized inefficiencies in military spending, particularly in shipbuilding, calling it a “mess.” He argued that business leaders are needed to overhaul the Pentagon’s procurement system, which he says delivers too little at too high a cost.
While waste at the Pentagon has been a bipartisan concern, Democrats and civil service unions argue that Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency lacks the expertise to lead reforms. Additionally, Musk’s companies hold major Pentagon contracts, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
Despite bipartisan skepticism, Trump remains confident that Musk’s efforts will expose widespread misuse of government funds.
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