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By Billal Rahman
Immigration Reporter
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A mural of tech billionaire Elon Musk has been vandalized in Texas amid widespread concern about his role in the Trump administration and its policies.
Newsweek contacted the Brownsville Police Department for further comment via email outside of normal office hours.
Why It Matters
Musk, the billionaire founder of Tesla and SpaceX, has been appointed as a "special government employee" under the Trump administration. This status enables him to work with the federal government without being a full-time employee or receiving a salary, sparking concerns about his influence on policy and potential conflicts of interest.
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Musk is leading the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to slash federal funding.
Critics argue that his involvement in shaping federal agencies—particularly his push to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)—highlights broader fears about corporate influence in public governance.
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What to Know
The mural was vandalized with the phrase "Deny, Defend, Depose" and an anarchist symbol over Musk's face.
The phrase "Deny, Defend, Depose" became linked to the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson after it was discovered inscribed on bullet shell casings at the crime scene.
A police report hasn't been filed in connection with the vandalism, according to KRGV.
The incident comes as Musk faces backlash from critics over his involvement in the Trump administration and the dismantling of USAID.
Critics argue that his growing government role gives him excessive, unchecked influence over policy. As an unelected billionaire, opponents argue that he wields power intended for public officials, shaping major initiatives with little transparency. Some, especially on the left, call it a de facto takeover.
Meanwhile, the White House confirmed that Musk has been given a government email and office space under his new role, though the exact details of his responsibilities remain unclear.
"He has abided by all applicable federal laws," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said, adding that she didn't know the status of Musk's security clearance or whether he had completed a background check.
Musk's appointment falls under the category of a "special government employee," a designation that allows him to work in an official capacity for up to 130 days per year without being classified as a full-time staff member.
While special government employees are subject to financial disclosure requirements, their reporting obligations are less stringent than those of full-time federal officials. Some may only need to file confidential disclosures instead of public ones, limiting the visibility of their financial interests.
Although Musk holds a government role, he is reportedly not receiving a salary. White House officials confirmed to CNN and Business Insider that his position is unpaid.
What Happens Next
Authorities in Brownsville haven't yet confirmed if they have found a suspect in connection with the act.
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