Fox’s Jessica Tarlov Grills Elon Musk on Agency Cuts: ‘Are You Serving America — or Yourself?’

Fox News anchor Jessica Tarlov didn’t hold back in a tense exchange with Elon Musk on Tuesday, directly challenging the tech billionaire over controversial budget cuts to government agencies tasked with regulating his sprawling business empire.

Appearing on Fox News Channel’s The Five, Musk faced tough questions about DOGE — the government oversight body he currently oversees — and its recent reductions to departments investigating his companies like Tesla and SpaceX.

Tarlov — known for her sharp commentary and self-proclaimed “liberal Tesla lover” status — confronted Musk head-on.

“You’ve been slashing funding to agencies that are in active regulatory battles with your companies, while still benefiting from billions in government subsidies and contracts. How do you explain that to the American people?” she asked.

Musk, calm but defensive, responded with familiar talking points about transparency and accountability.

“Everything DOGE does is public. We’re probably the most transparent organization in government history. Every action we take is posted online for all to see,” Musk insisted.

Musk acknowledged the possibility of mistakes but emphasized rapid correction and openness.

“Nobody’s perfect — not me, not anyone. But we correct our mistakes quickly. I’m under a level of scrutiny few people could imagine. If I did anything corrupt, it would be impossible to hide,” he added.

Tarlov’s challenge cut to the heart of growing criticism that Musk is leveraging public power for private gain — a narrative his critics have amplified as government funding continues to pour into Musk-led ventures.

“It’s about trust,” Tarlov pressed. “How do Americans trust that DOGE’s cuts aren’t just protecting your own bottom line?”

Musk’s defense was unapologetic:

“History will judge us. I truly believe what we’re doing is strengthening America for the future — in technology, in energy, in space.”

The exchange highlights a brewing political storm over Musk’s role in government, especially as debates intensify around billionaire influence in public policy.

One thing is clear — Jessica Tarlov wasn’t afraid to say what many Americans are thinking: Whose interests is Elon Musk really serving?