Donald Trump has firmly dismissed allegations that billionaire Elon Musk wields significant influence over his presidency, calling such claims a political “hoax.”
Speaking in Arizona, Trump addressed the speculation fueled by Musk’s prominent role in recent political matters, including their joint opposition to a congressional budget bill. Trump praised Musk’s contributions but made it clear: “And no, he’s not taking the presidency.”
The speculation intensified after Musk, owner of Tesla and SpaceX, successfully influenced the renegotiation of the budget bill, drawing criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans. Trump, however, joked about Musk’s eligibility, stating, “You know why he can’t be [president]? He wasn’t born in this country.”
Musk, who endorsed Trump during his campaign and donated $200 million to a supporting PAC, was recently appointed to lead the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), an advisory panel aimed at streamlining federal spending. The panel has raised concerns about Musk’s influence, given its undefined scope.
The revised budget bill, signed by outgoing President Joe Biden, extends government funding until March but omits contentious provisions, including measures Musk had opposed. Musk’s public criticism of the original bill and threats to back primary challenges against its supporters further highlighted his growing political clout.
Reactions to Musk’s involvement have been mixed. Some Republicans, like Representative Tony Gonzales, likened Musk to a “prime minister,” while Democrats, such as Rosa DeLauro, accused the GOP of catering to an unelected billionaire. DeLauro criticized the removal of a provision that could have restricted Musk’s business dealings in China.
Musk’s participation in high-level discussions, including calls with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and meetings with French and Italian leaders, has also raised eyebrows. Social media memes mocking Trump as deferring to Musk have amplified the narrative.
Despite the controversy, Senator Bill Hagerty defended Musk’s role, praising his contributions but emphasizing that Trump remains in control.
