Elon Musk Criticizes President Trump’s Personnel Director Over Background Check Oversight

Elon Musk has publicly slammed Sergio Gor, President Trump’s personnel chief, after reports surfaced that Gor failed to complete a standard background check, despite being responsible for vetting thousands of political appointees in the administration.

Musk described Gor as “a snake” on social media, criticizing his role in a recent dispute with Musk’s fellow billionaire and SpaceX CEO. The controversy intensified when Gor allegedly persuaded Trump to withdraw the nomination of Jared Isaacman, a close associate of Musk, to lead NASA. The move was reportedly influenced by Isaacman’s donations to Democratic candidates, though Gor claims the final decision rested with Trump.

Gor, tasked with recruiting and vetting over 4,000 appointees, had not submitted his own SF-86 form—a standard security clearance application—before starting his role, which is unusual for White House aides. Although he has now completed the lengthy questionnaire for a permanent clearance, it is unclear when he will submit it.

The dispute between Musk and Trump, previously marked by insults and threats, appears to be thawing somewhat, with both figures temporarily stepping back from their harsh criticisms. Musk, who donated over $250 million to Trump’s latest campaign, took issue with the revocation of Isaacman’s nomination, which spurred Musk to call for opponent votes against the bill that contained many of Trump’s campaign promises.

Furthermore, Gor’s role in the episode has upset some of Trump’s advisers, who see it as allowing personal grievances to interfere with the president’s political objectives. Gor has suggested that he was from Malta, but the Maltese government has clarified that he was not born there.

Despite the ongoing feud, Musk’s scrutiny highlights concerns about staffing procedures and security clearances within the administration. As the situation develops, Gor’s future actions regarding his security clearance remain closely watched.