President Trump held the first Cabinet meeting of his presidency on Wednesday, directing agency heads to submit proposals for large-scale federal workforce reductions by March 13.
Administration adviser Elon Musk attended the meeting and emphasized the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) role, warning that the U.S. couldn’t sustain $2 trillion deficits with national debt interest surpassing Defense Department spending.
A memo was also issued, directing agencies to work with DOGE to cut underperforming employees, close unneeded regional offices, eliminate redundant management layers, reduce “non-critical” jobs, automate simple tasks, and limit outside consultants.
The hourlong meeting covered various topics, with Trump answering reporters’ questions on Ukraine, Russia, Taiwan, the House Republicans’ budget plan, and more.
