Divya Delhi:   photographs of Elon Musk traveling on Airforce One with his mother, Maye Musk, and four-year-old son X Æ A-12 alongside Donald Trump at Joint Base Andrews garnered criticism. Many questioned why a private individual and his family were on the presidential airplane after seeing the deplaning footage. The world's richest man and his family flying taxpayer-funded government planes was hard to stomach in the US and worldwide. Critics say it's a waste of taxpayer funds, especially since Musk has a fleet of private jets. After photographs of Musk and his kid entering the White House surfaced, some questioned why Musk was allowed on Air Force One. He is seen as gaining power in the Trump administration, stoking fights over federal expenditures. The dispute has grown as the federal government cuts spending under the Department of Government Efficiency. Between $177,843 and $206,337 per hour—has been called "government waste," especially since Musk is leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to cut federal spending. Political strategist Chris D. Jackson and The Lincoln Project say that Musk, the world's richest person, should not use taxpayer-funded travel when he can finance his own. Musk's presence on Air Force One has raised fears about his rising influence over U.S. policy, with some branding him “President Musk.” Many dispute if his special adviser status deserves such exclusive access. While DOGE enforces tough budget cuts on federal staff, Musk appears to be receiving special privileges, escalating the scandal. The photographs suggest Musk's Airforce One trip is due to his strong friendship with Musk and Musk's role in his administration. Musk, who endorsed Trump in July 2024 and became a crucial adviser after the election, has been tasked with improving government efficiency and addressing Boeing's Air Force One replacement project delays. Musk Uses Air Force One with Family It Sparks Debate—Why? How Did Trump Allow It?