In the article titled Fact-checking Elon Musk’s claims in the Oval Office by Jake Horton and Lucy Gilder, published by BBC Verify, the authors examine several unfounded claims made by Elon Musk during an Oval Office event with President Donald Trump. Musk, addressing his new role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), aimed to promote government transparency but failed to provide evidence supporting his allegations of widespread corruption within government agencies.

Specifically, Musk reiterated a false claim regarding $50 million in U.S. funds meant for condom distribution to Gaza, which he later acknowledged might be intended for Gaza Province in Mozambique. However, BBC Verify confirmed that no funds had been allocated for condoms in Gaza, and the U.S. government records clarified that recent financial commitments were focused on HIV prevention programs in Mozambique.

Additionally, Musk referenced former USAID administrator Samantha Power amid unsubstantiated claims of significant increases in her net worth stemming from her government role, citing social media allegations without credible backing. BBC Verify’s calculations indicate that Power’s wealth remained relatively stable during her tenure, based on her financial disclosure statements.

The article also addresses Musk’s claims about Social Security, mentioning an assertion that individuals aged 150 are receiving benefits, which lacks substantiation. It reveals a 2023 report noting 19 million individuals born in 1920 or earlier have no recorded death data, with some receiving benefits, but no evidence exists for those as old as 150.

Moreover, Musk discussed inefficiencies in the federal retirement paperwork process, claiming it is managed manually in a limestone mine, referencing Iron Mountain, where government documents are stored. Historical audits support the notion of processing delays due to reliance on paper applications, although they do not mention the mine or its elevators as a primary cause.

Overall, the authors—Horton and Gilder—critique Musk’s statements, highlighting the lack of factual support and the potential misinformation disseminated during a high-profile public appearance.

For your serious evaluation: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwyjz24ne85o