Washington, D.C. – White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt fielded a series of pointed questions from CNN’s Chief White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins on Monday regarding billionaire entrepreneur and Trump ally Elon Musk’s potential security clearance and government role. However, Leavitt maintained a firm stance, providing limited information and pushing back against repeated inquiries.
During the White House press briefing, Collins pressed Leavitt on whether Musk had received a security clearance and whether he had undergone a background check as part of his role as a special government employee. The line of questioning stems from increasing scrutiny over Musk’s influence in government affairs, particularly concerning defense contracts, space exploration, and national security matters.
Collins initiated the exchange by asking, “Can you confirm that Elon Musk is a special government employee? And what kind of security clearance does he have?”
Leavitt responded matter-of-factly, stating, “I can confirm he’s a special government employee. I can also confirm that he has abided by all applicable federal laws. As for his security clearance, I’m not sure, but I can check back with you.”
Unsatisfied with the response, Collins continued to push for clarification, asking, “Did he pass a background check, do you know?”
Leavitt, remaining composed, answered, “I don’t know about the security clearance, but I can check.”
Collins, determined to extract more details, pressed further, inquiring if any individuals on Musk’s team had been granted security clearances.
“I don’t, no, but again, I can check on that for you,” Leavitt replied, maintaining her stance.
The exchange underscores the growing concern surrounding Musk’s role in government affairs, especially given his close relationships with former President Donald Trump and other high-ranking officials. His involvement in critical national security areas, including SpaceX’s partnerships with NASA and the Pentagon, Starlink’s deployment in conflict zones, and Tesla’s manufacturing implications, has made him a subject of increased scrutiny.
Musk’s influence has expanded beyond the tech industry into politics and defense, drawing both praise and criticism. His companies have played a significant role in advancing U.S. space capabilities, but questions remain about how much access he has to classified information and whether his private ventures intersect with national security concerns.
The Biden administration has largely remained quiet on the specifics of Musk’s government involvement, and Leavitt’s responses suggest that officials are being cautious in handling inquiries about his security clearance and background vetting process. However, transparency advocates and lawmakers continue to push for greater clarity regarding the billionaire’s role within the government and the extent of his access to sensitive information.
Critics argue that Musk’s unpredictable behavior and controversial statements, particularly on social media, raise concerns about his fitness to hold a security clearance. Others counter that his contributions to technology, defense, and space exploration make him a valuable asset to U.S. interests. Regardless, the lack of clear answers from the White House has only fueled further speculation.
As the administration navigates these questions, it remains to be seen whether officials will provide more details about Musk’s government role and security access. Leavitt’s promise to “check back” on the matter suggests that the White House is aware of the public’s interest and may provide more clarification in the coming days.
For now, the debate over Musk’s influence and access to classified information continues, with the White House press corps and lawmakers likely to keep pressing for answers.
