President Donald Trump indicated to top advisers that Elon Musk could be taking a step back from his current role, sources familiar with the matter told ABC News.

Summary

Trump has privately signaled that Elon Musk will likely step back from his role as a special government employee when his 130-day term ends in May, sources told ABC News.

Though some aides hoped to extend Musk’s appointment, internal divisions and public controversy have made that unlikely.

Trump praised Musk’s work with DOGE but acknowledged he will “go back and run Tesla.”

White House officials have shifted to managing Musk’s influence until his term expires. The White House confirmed Musk will leave when his role concludes.