Musk Is a Special Government Employee—What Is That?

Because of special government employee allowances, specialized experts such as doctors, scientists, and business leaders have contributed to national policy.
Musk Is a Special Government Employee—What Is That?
Elon Musk (L) speaks next to President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House on Feb. 11, 2025. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters
Savannah Hulsey Pointer
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Some noteworthy figures in the Trump administration fall under the category of special government employees. The most high-profile one is Elon Musk.

The status of special government employee allows individuals to work for both the federal government and the private sector simultaneously. Those working as special government employees are limited to working up to 130 days per year unless the administration expressly extends that limit.