In a striking display of firmness during a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt sharply rebuked CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins for persistently questioning details about Elon Musk’s security clearance and background check. Leavitt’s no‑nonsense responses not only underscored the administration’s confidence in its own vetting process but also highlighted the broader narrative surrounding Musk’s unique role in government affairs.

I. The Confrontation: A Press Briefing Under Siege

At a White House gaggle held in front of the presidential residence, Leavitt, alongside Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, was bombarded with questions about a variety of foreign policy issues. However, one line of questioning by CNN’s Kaitlan Collins quickly dominated the conversation.

Collins asked, “Can you confirm that Elon Musk is a special government employee? And what kind of security clearance does he have?” Leavitt’s immediate response was firm yet measured: “I can confirm he’s a special government employee. I can also confirm that he has abided by all applicable federal laws. As for his security clearance, I’m not sure, but I can check back with you.” When pressed further—“Did he pass a background check, do you know?”—she repeated her stance, emphasizing that she did not have that specific detail at hand but would follow up.