Seven weeks into President Trump's second term, Elon Musk has become a disruptive force in Washington, wielding his influence over policy decisions and reshaping political dynamics. His close ties with the White House,

Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, slammed the new House Republicans’ six-month stopgap funding bill, claiming it is a “blank check” for tech billionaire and close President Trump adviser Elon Musk.

Tesla’s campaigns to sell their electric vehicles directly to consumers, bypassing traditional dealerships, face more challenges in Democratic statehouses as Musk’s national clout grows.