Former U.S. President Donald Trump has rejected media narratives suggesting that Elon Musk wields significant influence over his administration, calling such claims an attempt to sow division.
In an excerpt from an upcoming Fox News interview set to air Tuesday, Trump mocked reports portraying Musk as the real power in the White House. Imitating a news anchor, he quipped, “We have breaking news: Donald Trump has ceded control of the presidency to Elon Musk. President Musk will be attending a cabinet meeting tonight…”
Musk, who leads the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been at the center of public debate due to his aggressive cost-cutting measures across government agencies. The billionaire’s prominent role has fueled media satire, with Time magazine featuring him behind the Resolute Desk and The New Yorker depicting him taking the presidential oath alongside Trump.
Despite speculation about tension, Trump insists their relationship remains strong. “Actually, Elon called me,” Trump said. “He said, ‘You know, they’re trying to drive us apart.’ I said, ‘Absolutely.’”
While Musk faces declining favorability in polls, Trump’s approval ratings are climbing. The former president dismissed concerns, claiming, “The people are smart. They get it.”
