The White House declined Elon Musk's offer to cover the salaries of approximately 50,000 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees amidst a partial government shutdown. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson stated on 25/3, "We are grateful for Elon's generous offer. However, this would pose significant legal challenges, as he is involved in numerous contracts with the federal government."

Elon Musk attends an investment forum in Washington in 11/2025. *Photo: AP*

Jackson further emphasized the administration's confidence that the partial government shutdown, caused by a policy approval deadlock, would soon conclude. She added, "The quickest way to ensure TSA employees, as well as all Department of Homeland Security personnel, are paid is for Democrats to agree to approve the agency's budget."

The rejection also stems from potential conflicts of interest. CBS previously cited sources familiar with the matter, noting that the US billionaire has numerous government contracts. According to the Washington Post, Musk and his companies have received at least 38 billion USD from US government contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax incentives over many years. Observers suggest Musk's proposal is unlikely to be feasible due to the Anti-Deficiency Act, which prohibits federal agencies from spending beyond the budget approved by the US Congress. Any private donations received would also have to be transferred to the US Department of the Treasury and could not be used without an appropriation law.

The US Department of Homeland Security has been shut down for over one month due to a budget deadlock. Tens of thousands of personnel, including approximately 50,000 TSA employees, are working without pay. This workforce is considered essential and must continue operations at airports nationwide. The budget shortfall is severely impacting aviation operations in the US. Over 480 screening officers have resigned since the crisis began, while many others have requested leave due to financial hardship. Some airports are reporting high absenteeism rates, leading to security check wait times extending for hours.

Passengers queue for security checks at John F. Kennedy Airport, New York, on 22/3. *Photo: AP*

Despite the White House's stance, President Donald Trump and some bipartisan lawmakers initially supported Elon Musk's idea, deeming it "great". Meanwhile, the US Senate appears to be nearing an agreement to fund most of the Department of Homeland Security. Republican lawmakers stated they have presented a proposal to Democrats and expect to resolve the impasse by the end of this week.

Thanh Danh (According to CBS, Reuters)