White House turns down Elon Musk's offer to pay TSA workers during DHS shutdown The White House has declined an offer from Elon Musk to cover the salaries of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers during a partial government shutdown that has left airport travelers across the country without proper staffing. According to multiple sources, Musk’s proposal was considered seriously by Trump administration officials, but legal hurdles could prevent him from directly or indirectly funding the pay, particularly due to his existing government contracts. White House officials also expressed confidence that the partial shutdown would end soon, according to unnamed sources. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Democrats for the stalemate, accusing them of prolonging the crisis. “The president and the Republicans’ position has been very clear—fund the Department of Homeland Security,” Leavitt stated. Musk publicly offered to pay TSA personnel during the funding impasse, posting on X, where he noted the impact on American travelers. President Trump praised the idea, saying, “I’d love it. I think it’s great. Let him do that.” However, the administration has not accepted the offer, citing legal complexities. The estimated cost of Musk’s proposal is around $250 million, according to two sources. While the government could theoretically redirect funds from its general account to cover the pay, federal law prohibits private individuals from directly compensating government employees. However, citizens can donate to the U.S. government through the “Gifts to the U.S. Government” account, which can then be allocated to budget needs.#white_house #elon_musk #karoline_leavitt #transportation_security_administration #dhs_shutdown
