Musk Plans to Scale Back Advisory Role Amidst Tesla Challenges

Elon Musk has announced his intention to reduce his advisory role with the US government, shifting his focus back to leading Tesla. Musk indicated that he would likely dedicate significantly less time to governmental affairs, particularly to the Department of Government Efficiency, where he plans to engage only one or two days a week. This decision follows a troubling report revealing a more than 70% drop in Tesla's earnings in the first quarter, prompting concerns from treasurers in seven US states about his commitment to the automaker.

In related news, President Donald Trump has softened his stance towards Jerome Powell, the Chair of the Federal Reserve, stating he does not intend to dismiss him. Trump had previously threatened Powell with termination if he did not lower interest rates. This change comes amidst Powell's warnings that tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could lead to increased prices and diminished economic growth in the US. Powell emphasized that a reduction in interest rates is premature.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has unveiled plans for significant budget cuts within the State Department. Rubio aims to streamline operations by eliminating unnecessary structures and programs that do not align with America's core national interests or legal obligations. Should these proposals be approved, the initial phase would involve dismantling over 130 domestic divisions and cutting approximately 700 positions in Washington. This restructuring could impact offices dealing with war crimes and international conflicts.

In a separate development, a federal judge has mandated the US government to reverse its decision to close several state-funded international broadcasting stations. The ruling requires the government to take all necessary measures to reinstate employees and resume broadcasting operations. Outlets such as Voice of America and Radio Free Asia, which have long been integral to US foreign policy, provide multilingual news programming to countries with authoritarian regimes. These stations receive funding from Congress, which stipulates a commitment to delivering accurate and comprehensive news coverage.

Additionally, the US government is addressing allegations of anti-Christian discrimination. Attorney General Pam Bondi initiated a cabinet meeting focused on identifying and eliminating any unlawful anti-Christian actions, practices, or behaviors. This initiative is underpinned by an executive order signed by President Trump, with Bondi citing instances from the previous administration where Christian anti-abortion activists were arrested while protesting peacefully outside abortion clinics.

These developments reflect significant shifts in both the corporate and political landscape in the United States, as key figures navigate economic challenges and broader societal issues.