Register readers are focused on Washington, D.C., and their views of DOGE and Elon Musk, in letters published Feb. 11-17, 2025.

Trump on executive orders and decrees has sparked significant controversy, particularly in relation to his collaboration with Elon Musk, the world’s richest man. Despite Republicans controlling all three branches of government, Trump has bypassed legislation in favor of unilateral actions, signaling an effort to create a precedent where the president holds unchecked power. As journalist David Sirota points out, this strategy aligns with the goal of establishing a presidential authority that operates like an “elected king””, which undermines the checks and balances of our democracy. Sirota also criticizes the Democratic Party for its failure to mount an effective opposition. As he notes, the party seems to lack a clear message or agenda, leaving voters uncertain about what it truly stands for. The absence of a compelling economic platform has allowed Trump to dominate the narrative, particularly among working-class voters. Meanwhile, Democrats continue to support policies and nominees that contradict their opposition to Trump, leading to confusion and a lack of trust. Elon Musk's role in shaping Trump’s agenda is also a concern. By overseeing the gutting of federal agencies, Musk’s actions align with private sector interests, further blurring the lines between government and business. As Sirota suggests, this is not about restoring democracy but rather enriching private contractors at the public’s expense. As the nation faces these challenges, the need for the Democratic Party to present a coherent and unified platform has never been more urgent. Without it, Trump’s unchecked actions and the party’s inability to oppose him will continue to undermine the foundations of American democracy.

To those concerned about billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk’s access to sensitive government data, his tear-it-down band of young techies doing that work is an unregulated threat to privacy. The view on the right is much different.

Outnumbered' panelists weigh in after MSNBC host Michael Steele fiery criticism of the Democratic Party for failing to denounce Elon Musk and DOGE.

Alina Habba, counselor to President Donald Trump, defends DOGE’s battle against bureaucratic waste while the Democratic Party continues to target Elon Musk on ‘Hannity.’

Register readers are focused on Washington, D.C., and their views of DOGE and Elon Musk, in letters published Feb. 11-17, 2025.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) and nearly 200 other Democratic lawmakers are demanding that Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficienncy (DOGE)

Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) defended the volunteer head of the Department of Government Efficiency Elon Musk from the Democratic Party’s criticisms. DOGE is examining the Education, Homeland Security, a

After a devastating election loss and three weeks into a whirlwind Trump administration, what most animates a leaderless Democratic Party is their collective shock and horror occasioned by Elon Musk and his handiwork.

The Ingraham Angle' panelists Republican pollster Matt Towery and Democratic strategist Mark Penn unpack President Donald Trump's favorability compared to Democrats. Penn said polls show a retrospective assessment of former President Biden,

Former Democratic advisor Dan Turrentine admitted the party's effort to criticize Elon Musk's DOGE is 'terrible' as he uncovers and roots out wasteful federal spending.