Washington, D.C. – Republican lawmakers are pressing Elon Musk to seek congressional approval for his initiatives aimed at reducing federal spending and the federal workforce. These private meetings highlight the GOP’s desire to assert control over government spending and decision-making processes.

During discussions with Senate and House Republicans, Musk detailed the Department of Government Efficiency’s approach to cutting government programs. Lawmakers have been urging Musk to collaborate more with Congress on the programs DOGE aims to eliminate and the extent of the cuts. While Republicans initially aligned themselves with President Donald Trump and Musk’s efforts to reshape the federal government, they are now seeking a more consultative approach.

In efforts to address concerns, Musk shared his personal phone number with GOP senators and expressed his willingness to work closely with them. House Speaker Mike Johnson revealed ongoing communication with Musk, indicating a growing collaboration between the tech billionaire and Republican leaders.

Musk clarified his role in the federal employee terminations, attributing them to department heads rather than DOGE decisions. Acknowledging mistakes in the implementation of cuts, Musk assured lawmakers that corrective actions would be taken as needed.

Senators, including Rand Paul and Lindsey Graham, emphasized the importance of involving Congress in reviewing and approving Musk’s cuts through rescissions packages. These packages would require majority votes in the GOP-led Senate and House, presenting a strategic challenge for Republicans concerned about potential backlash from constituents.

As discussions intensify, GOP members are privately sharing feedback with the White House on improving the implementation of Musk’s initiatives. Calls for a more compassionate approach towards affected federal workers have also been voiced, reflecting a growing emphasis on addressing the human impact of government reforms.

The evolving dynamics between Musk, Congress, and the White House underscore the complexities of reshaping government operations. With ongoing dialogue and feedback mechanisms in place, Republicans are navigating the delicate balance between supporting Musk’s goals and ensuring accountability in the decision-making process.