Elon Musk’s appearance in the Oval Office underscored why he is a formidable adversary to the federal government and why President Donald Trump is taking a significant risk by granting him so much influence.

As a portrait of George Washington looked on, Trump and Musk—wearing a black MAGA hat and a long dark coat, with his son X occasionally perched on his shoulders—delivered their strongest defense yet of Musk’s controversial effort to reshape the federal government. The initiative, which has already led to the dismantling of key agencies, threatens essential services, medical research, and the nation’s largest foreign aid program.

Musk’s claims of government waste and inefficiency resonate with millions of Americans who distrust Washington’s bureaucracy and support Trump’s aggressive push to overhaul the system. The event, however, was more than just a defense of Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). It was a striking display of power, emphasizing that true authority in Washington may now lie not with Congress or the courts, but within the alliance between the president and one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.

Despite Musk’s clear deference to Trump, his confidence and sense of impunity were undeniable. He commands influence without being elected or confirmed by Congress, raising concerns about constitutional overreach. Meanwhile, Trump’s decision to stand firmly behind his billionaire ally signals a growing dependence on Musk’s vision for government reform, even as it faces legal and political resistance.

The sweeping changes led by Musk and Trump’s administration, including the closure of agencies like USAID and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, have sparked lawsuits and political backlash. Vice President JD Vance’s comments have further fueled fears that the administration might defy judicial rulings. Musk, however, insists that his actions are rooted in eliminating inefficiencies, justifying his push for direct access to Treasury payment systems by citing outdated accounting practices.

Trump, for his part, sought to ease concerns, stating, “I always abide by the courts.” Yet his track record of defying legal constraints raises doubts about whether he will truly respect judicial limits.

Musk’s role in the administration, while politically advantageous in the short term, could become a liability. His extensive business ties to federal contracts create potential conflicts of interest, and his refusal to fully disclose financial entanglements only adds to the controversy. His claim that DOGE is the most transparent government entity contrasts sharply with the secrecy surrounding his personal financial disclosures.

Ultimately, while Trump and Musk’s radical shake-up of the federal government aligns with the desires of many voters, the deeper consequences—ranging from dismantled institutions to constitutional challenges—may pose significant risks for both the administration and the country.