Steve Wozniak, one of the last remnants of an old guard of tech enthusiasts known for their laid-back demeanor, holds a dim view of both Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The pioneer credited with igniting the personal computer revolution shared his thoughts with CNBC, characterizing Musk and Trump as bullies who are using a heavy-handed approach to deal with the federal government.

Although Wozniak expressed support for identifying inefficiencies in government during his interview with CNBC, he would adopt a distinctly different strategy, advocating for “a vast department that scrutinizes every detail.” The Apple co-founder argued that the process of reducing spending and bureaucratic red tape should be undertaken “with greater precision, using a scalpel rather than a sledgehammer.”

In contrast, Musk and his team at the Department of Government Efficiency have taken a more aggressive approach, seemingly cutting government contracts and firing employees without careful consideration, only to later rehire them to ensure the functional operation of agencies. This includes critical roles such as managing nuclear programs and operating air traffic control towers. Wozniak remarked, “Mass firings are not an effective way to run a business; it’s about understanding what works and what doesn’t, and making informed changes.”

Generally, Wozniak struggled to offer a positive perspective on Musk or his worldview. “I’m unsure what has driven Elon Musk’s thoughts,” he stated. “Sometimes, when individuals accumulate immense wealth and achieve great success, it can go to their heads, leading them to believe they are the most exceptional and intelligent person, and that they have the right to dictate the actions of others.” Wozniak described Musk and Trump’s approach to governance as “bullying.”

Despite previously being a significant supporter of Musk, this is not the first time Wozniak has expressed criticism, although his comments are often mild, as he is not one to rock the boat. In 2017, he cautioned that there was “excessive hype” surrounding Musk and Tesla, accusing the company and its CEO of consistently overpromising and underdelivering. He intensified his criticism in 2018, stating, “I no longer believe anything Elon Musk or Tesla says.”

Wozniak’s harshest words for Musk came in 2023, when he likened Musk to a cult leader, saying he seeks “to be perceived as the most important person,” and that “many people will follow him without question, and he becomes unaccountable. This is a common trait among cults.” This observation seems particularly astute in today’s context.