President Donald Trump recently responded to allegations that Elon Musk is essentially his “co-president,” following growing speculation about the billionaire’s influence in the White House. Since Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 election, Musk has become a key figure in the administration, playing an active role in the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
DOGE’s mission is to eliminate wasteful spending and curb fraud in government operations, an area of shared concern between Trump and Musk. Early in Trump’s second term, the administration has implemented controversial measures, including slashing government budgets, firing federal workers, and even making moves to dismantle USAID. These actions have prompted critics to suggest that Musk is the one pulling the strings, despite Trump holding the presidency.
The controversy surrounding their relationship intensified when Musk was pictured sitting alone at Trump’s desk in the Oval Office during a press conference. The image quickly spread, leading many to believe that Musk was taking a more prominent role than Trump himself. Time Magazine even featured a cover photo of Musk in the Oval Office, further fueling the idea that the billionaire was essentially in charge.
During his Fox News interview, Trump addressed the rumors head-on, recounting a conversation he had with Musk, who was concerned about the media’s portrayal of their working relationship. Trump responded humorously, “Breaking news: I’ve ceded control of the presidency to Elon Musk. President Musk will be leading the next cabinet meeting.”
Trump went on to criticize the media’s handling of the situation, accusing them of being inept at creating drama. “They used to be good at it, but now they’re terrible,” Trump remarked, suggesting that if the media were truly effective, he would not be in office.
Since taking office, Trump’s close connection to Musk has drawn both praise and skepticism. Musk, a key financial backer of Trump’s 2024 campaign, has spent a great deal of time in the president’s orbit, with the two reportedly working closely together after the election. However, as Trump’s second term got underway, there was growing speculation about Musk’s influence in the White House.
The issue gained momentum after Musk stood at the podium during a press conference in the Oval Office, taking questions from reporters while Trump remained seated and silent at his desk. Critics quickly seized on the optics, with MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell describing it as a moment that made Trump look powerless.
Although some members of the Republican Party have begun to voice their concerns about Musk’s growing power, particularly after his mass firings of federal employees and his handling of federal funds, Trump has continued to support Musk. The billionaire’s approval among some GOP members is starting to wane, but Trump’s loyalty to Musk remains firm.
Public opinion on Musk’s role in the administration is also starting to shift. A recent poll showed that a majority of independents and moderates disapprove of Musk’s influence, raising concerns that the billionaire’s unpopularity could impact the Republican Party in upcoming elections.
Liberal groups, already critical of Musk, have escalated their protests against his policies, especially regarding the cuts to federal programs. Progressive activists have organized demonstrations outside Tesla dealerships and have even targeted congressional offices. In response to Musk’s growing influence, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders has launched a national tour to challenge the power of billionaires in politics.
Despite the protests and the growing criticism, Trump continues to stand by Musk, and it seems unlikely that his influence will diminish anytime soon.
