ELON MUSK (Shutterstock).

Elon Musk made his fortune – in part – by creating a wildly successful stable of electric cars. But as his political involvements have put a dent in the economic performance of Tesla, he will be cutting back on his involvement in Washington.

According to the Associated Press, Muck on Tuesday said in a conference call with stock analysts that “now that the major work of establishing Department of Government Efficiency is done” he will be spending more time devoted to Tesla and cutting his time with DOGE to “a day or two per week.”

Musk’s aggressive work at cutting government staff has been controversial, and it’s been reflected in the sales of the Tesla vehicles, which have declined 71 percent in profits in the first quarter of 2025 and an overall drop in company profits of 9 percent.

Cuts coming to State Department

A plan to make big cuts in the U.S. Department of State was announced Tuesday by Secretary Marco Rubio

DEPARTMENT OF STATE LOGO

He termed the department, which is responsible for America’s relations with other countries “bloated, bureaucratic” as well as “beholden to radical political ideology,” reports The New York Times.

One major change would be the elimination of the office of undersecretary for civilian security, democracy and human rights. That office has been characterized as a center of liberal activism.

So far, Rubio is planning on reducing the department’s bureaus by roughly 18 percent, which would eliminate about 700 jobs.

Overall, The Times wrote that plans would be unveiled soon to reduce the number of employees based in the U.S. by 15 percent.

Pope’s funeral set for Saturday

The dean of the College of Cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church – Giovanni Battista – will preside over the funeral Saturday of the late Pope Francis.

According to United Press International, the pontiff’s body will be lying in state for three days preceding the funeral mass.

Among the world leaders confirmed to attend are President Donald Trump, along with his wife Melania Trump.

After the interment, there will be a period of nine days of mourning. Fifteen to 20 days later, the College of Cardinals will convene to begin the selection of a new pope.

Weather: Still living in the 60s

Pleasantly cool temperatures will continue for our West Orange County cities right through the weekend. Wednesday will have a daytime high of 66 with an overnight low of 55. There will be clouds in the morning and sun in the afternoon. Thursday will warm slightly to 67 (51) under partly cloudy skies. Friday will begin a modest cooling trend to 64 (52) and Saturday at 63 (52), both days having partly cloudy skies.

Great Thoughts

“Freedom of the press is guaranteed to those who own one.”
– A.J. Liebling

“I would remind you that extremism in the defense of liberty is no vice! And let me remind you also that moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue!”
– Barry Goldwater, politician and U.S. Senator.