Washington, D.C., April 13, 2025 – Elon Musk, co-leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), stirred controversy at a White House cabinet meeting on April 10 by writing “Top Secret!!” on his notepad, a move he reportedly made to “mess with” the media. The image, captured by press photographers and shared widely on X, shows the note in front of Musk’s nameplate, sparking both amusement and criticism amid an otherwise serious discussion on immigration and trade policies.
Musk, known for his playful antics, has a history of trolling the media—tweeting a fake BBC acquisition in 2023 and briefly dubbing himself “Chief Troll Officer” on X in 2024. According to a post by
@WallStreetApes, Musk wrote the note knowing photographers would snap pictures, aiming to provoke a reaction. The cabinet meeting addressed critical issues, including the recent militarization of the southern border and a 90-day tariff pause announced on April 2, per Variety. Musk’s stunt, however, shifted attention to his actions, highlighting his knack for generating buzz.
Public reaction on X was mixed. Some users found it humorous, with one calling it “classic Musk,” while others criticized it as unprofessional.
@JoniSmi82336510 wrote, “This isn’t a game—people are struggling, and he’s joking around.” Musk’s role in the Trump administration has already been contentious, with critics pointing to potential conflicts of interest due to his leadership of Tesla and SpaceX, while supporters praise his efforts to cut government spending. The “Top Secret” note has only intensified debates about his suitability for a government role.
There’s no evidence the note contained classified information, and White House officials have not commented as of April 13. The incident, however, underscores Musk’s influence in Trump’s administration, where he advises on major policy issues, and his ability to command media attention. Critics argue the stunt undermines the gravity of the cabinet meeting, while others see it as a savvy distraction from more controversial policies, like the border militarization.
Musk’s trolling reflects his unconventional approach to power, but it also raises questions about professionalism in a high-stakes role. As he navigates his advisory position, this episode highlights the fine line between generating publicity and maintaining credibility in government. For now, Musk remains a polarizing figure, blending humor with influence in Trump’s inner circle.
