In the first 100 days of President Donald Trump’s second term, major evening news networks have overwhelmingly focused on negative coverage, with a recent study highlighting that Elon Musk, in his capacity as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has faced particularly intense scrutiny. According to a Media Research Center (MRC) analysis reported by Fox News , Musk’s work within the administration received 96% negative coverage from ABC, NBC, and CBS evening newscasts between January 20 and April 9.

Networks Zero In on DOGE Chief

The MRC study examined evening news programs on ABC, NBC, and CBS, finding that while President Trump himself faced 92% negative coverage during this period, the focus on his appointee Elon Musk was even more critical. The analysis, which tallied explicitly evaluative statements from reporters, anchors, and non-partisan sources, revealed that coverage related to Musk’s efforts at DOGE was almost entirely negative. This contrasts sharply with the 59% positive coverage the same study found for former President Joe Biden during his first 100 days in 2021.

The report specifically noted the media’s reaction to policy initiatives associated with Musk’s department. Researcher Rich Noyes wrote that “the DOGE cutbacks to government were greeted by 97% negative spin,” indicating a strong media focus on the perceived downsides or controversies surrounding the efficiency drive led by the Tesla CEO.

Political Crosshairs and Public Perception

Musk’s high-profile position within the Trump administration places him directly in the line of sight for media analysis, especially given his prominent role in the tech and automotive industries. The overwhelmingly negative coverage, as quantified by the MRC, suggests a challenging public relations environment for his government work. While the study focused on media spin, a White House spokesperson quoted in the original report pushed back, stating, “The mainstream media continues to portray President Trump’s historic accomplishments negatively… Americans know the President is doing what is best for the country.”

However, the sheer volume of negative evaluations directed at Musk’s DOGE activities underscores the contentious nature of his government role. The study found that DOGE-related topics received 301 minutes of coverage on these networks during the period studied, second only to tariffs among policy issues.

EVXL’s Take

For EV enthusiasts and Tesla watchers, Elon Musk stepping into the political arena always felt like a double-edged sword. While his drive for efficiency is legendary at SpaceX and Tesla, applying it to the vast machinery of government was bound to attract friction and intense media focus. This study quantifies just how sharp that focus has become, with nearly all coverage painting his DOGE efforts in a negative light. Does this political heat distract from Tesla’s mission, or does it simply come with the territory when a figure like Musk takes on such a visible government role? It’s a reminder that Musk operates under a unique, and often critical, spotlight, whether he’s launching rockets, building EVs, or attempting to streamline bureaucracy. The results, and the reporting, will surely continue to be debated.

Photo courtesy of @cb_doge / X