A heavy confrontation between Ilon Musk and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has highlighted the growing dissatisfaction within the government over the uncontrolled power of the billionaire businessman. The controversy, which occurred in the White House cabinet hall, forced Donald Trump to intervene for the first time with the aim of setting limits to his adviser.

During the meeting, Musk launched an attack on Rubio, accusing him of failing to reduce his staff. “You haven’t fired anyone,” he said in an ironic style, adding that the only person who was fired was an employee of the government efficiency department created by Musk himself.

According to a New York Times report, Rubio, apparently annoyed, responded accusing Musk of false allegations. He recalled that more than 1,500 officials had received early pension through voluntary exit programs and wondered if Musk wanted to re -retrieve them to dismiss them again.

Musk, however, did not seem to be convinced, telling Rubio that he is “good on television”, implying that he was not capable of managing his ministry. President Trump remained silent throughout the intense confrontation, watching the conversation with his arms crossed, as if watching a tennis race.

The tension lasted for quite some time, until Trump decided to intervene, stating that Rubio was doing a “excellent job” and that he is very busy with travel, television appearances and the administration of his ministry. In this way, the US president tried to maintain the balance by recognizing the value of Musk but at the same time supporting his ministers.

This confrontation is considered a turning point, as for the first time Trump has shown intention to limit the influence of Musk, who until now had almost an uncontrolled role in the government. Many Republican officials have expressed concerns about the businessman’s methods, with some complaining directly to the president.

This meeting marks Trump’s first attempt to impose limits on Musk’s actions. The president acknowledged that the reforms promoted by the MSK team are significant, but stressed that a more “thin” approach is now needed. As he typically said, from now on, ministers will be responsible for the decisions, while Musk’s team will only have a advisory role.