The President of the New York branch of International Federation of Technical and Professional Engineers (IFTPE) Local 98 has roasted Elon Musk on TikTok. Chris Dols delivered a frank and scathing attack on Elon Musk, questioning his motives. Dols warned that everything that is happening to federal workers “is going to happen to the entire American public.”
In the video, Chris Dols, President of IFPTE Local 98 (New York), speaks candidly into the camera. He begins by introducing himself as a federal worker, and laments that he feels like “a canary in the coal mine right now.” He is, of course, referring to the concerning actions that have recently been taken against federal workers under Elon Musk’s instruction.
Dols warns that it isn’t just federal contracts that will suffer. He states that they, presumably referring to Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), will impact basic services. In particular, Dols highlights funding for education and public defence may be under threat, as well as public hospitals. In fact, Dols contends, “the entire public sphere is under attack.”
Dols then points the finger in the direction of the billionaires who have backed and been supported by Donald Trump. In particular, he calls out Elon Musk, who claims to be acting “in the name of democracy.” The IFPTE president questions whether Musk’s actions are actually for democracy. He questions, “Are you really doing it for the American people?” Further, Dols criticises Musk for acting purely out of self interest and the companies that he has vested interests in.
Finally, Dols closes the scathing attack on Elon Musk by concluding: “I get the feeling you didn’t become the richest person in the world by looking out for others.” I’d say that’s well put. It’s a perspective that often seems to be overlooked by the general populace. Elon Musk is a man obsessed with power and influence. Money grants that. He wouldn’t be taking these steps if he didn’t foresee profit in his actions.
Many TikTokers agreed that Elon Musk’s actions against federal workers are by design. One commented, “It is all in Project 2025… and it’s happening.” Another speculated that Musk is getting paid “$8 million a day.” It should be pointed out, however, that technically Musk doesn’t get any salary for his position as head of DOGE. That’s not to suggest, however, that he isn’t making money.
Either way, Chris Dols’ withering attack on Elon Musk is a reminder of just how emotive and contentious DOGE is. One TikToker summed it up neatly, angrily declaring, “Federal workers are American workers.” Well, these American workers are under attack and understandably aren’t happy about it.
