Tesla CEO Musk Regrets DOGE Role

Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently expressed some frank reflections about his controversial role leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) earlier in 2025. In a new podcast interview, Musk said he wouldn’t take on the government job again and hinted that his focus on politics may have harmed his core businesses, including Tesla.

Says DOGE Was Only “Somewhat Successful”

Musk described his stint leading the federal efficiency initiative as “a little bit successful” but not worth repeating. He noted that the effort, which aimed to cut wasteful government spending, faced strong resistance and delivered mixed results. Despite some claimed savings, Musk admitted later that the overall impact fell short of original expectations.

Focus Should Have Stayed on His Companies

When asked if he would step into that role again, Musk responded with a clear no. He said that, in hindsight, he would have preferred to stay focused on Tesla and his other companies rather than take on the government position.

Musk explained that the time and energy spent in Washington diverted attention away from Tesla. That diversion, he suggested, contributed to public frustration and backlash that affected his brand.

Backlash Targeted Tesla Vehicles

One striking remark from Musk was his reference to protests against Tesla. Reflecting on the negative reaction, he said that “they wouldn’t have been burning the cars” if he had stayed focused on his businesses instead of government work. This comment alludes to public protests and isolated incidents of vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles amid wider criticism of his political involvement.

Political Role Shifted Public Attention

Musk’s role with DOGE, a project launched under the Trump administration’s second term, placed him at the center of a heated cultural and political debate. Initially, the initiative aimed to reduce federal waste and streamline spending. However, it also sparked controversy and accusations that it interfered with government operations.

Critics have said that Musk’s government role drew eyes away from Tesla’s core focus on electric vehicles and innovation. Some analysts also linked the leadership change to temporary declines in Tesla’s sales momentum and stock performance.

An Unusual Chapter for the Tesla CEO

Musk’s involvement in governance was notable because he is best known as an entrepreneur. Now, his public reversal — describing the experience as something he wouldn’t repeat — highlights how even high-profile leaders can reassess strategic decisions after facing real-world consequences.