Musk faced the normal challenges when it came to cutting government spending. Even if he claimed he was only rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, he was charged with wanting to slash Social Security and Medicare benefits.

Tesla stock rose Thursday. Elon Musk and trade were driving shares higher. Shares of the electric-vehicle maker added 0.4%, closing at $358.43, while the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.

Elon Musk leaves his government role after significant changes in Washington's bureaucracy, including substantial budget cuts. Despite achieving less than intended, Musk promises continued involvement,