Former President Donald Trump addresses rumors about Elon Musk’s political influence, asserting his own leadership within the Republican Party.
At a Glance
- Trump dismisses the idea of Elon Musk becoming president due to his South African birth
- Musk’s growing political influence raises concerns within the Republican Party
- Trump reaffirms his leadership role in the GOP despite Musk’s increasing sway
- The former president addresses various issues, including the Panama Canal and Russia-Ukraine war
- Trump and Musk’s relationship remains cooperative, with Musk appointed to lead a new government efficiency office
Trump Responds to ‘President Musk’ Claims
At the recent AmericaFest conference organized by Turning Point USA in Phoenix, former President Donald Trump addressed growing speculation about Elon Musk’s political influence. Trump swiftly dismissed the notion of Musk becoming president, citing the tech mogul’s South African origins. This response came amid increasing attention to Musk’s role in shaping Republican policy and his involvement in partisan political dialogues.
“No, he’s not going to be president, that I can tell you. And I’m safe. You know why he can’t be? He wasn’t born in this country,” Trump said.
"Elon won't go home. I can't get rid of him—at least until I don't like him," Trump joked, acknowledging Musk's growing presence. https://t.co/A8QEvv1rY9
— Newsweek (@Newsweek) November 13, 2024
Musk’s Growing Political Influence
While Trump’s statement clarified the constitutional impossibility of Musk becoming president, it highlighted the underlying concern about Musk’s expanding political leverage. Recently, Musk directed Republican lawmakers to oppose a spending bill, threatening to support primary challengers against those who didn’t comply. This move, along with his significant social media presence, has positioned Musk as an influential figure in shaping policy discussions.
“As soon as President Trump released his official stance on the CR, Republicans on Capitol Hill echoed his point of view. President Trump is the leader of the Republican Party. Full stop,” Karoline Leavitt, a Trump spokesperson, stated.
Despite media speculation about potential friction between Trump and Musk, their relationship appears to remain cooperative. Musk has been appointed to lead a new office aimed at reducing government costs and inefficiencies, indicating a level of trust and collaboration between the two influential figures.
Trump’s Broader Political Agenda
During the AmericaFest conference, Trump didn’t solely focus on addressing Musk’s influence. He touched on several other key issues, including foreign policy and domestic concerns. Trump mentioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to meet with him and called for an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, signaling his continued interest in international affairs.
Trump also raised eyebrows with his comments about the Panama Canal, criticizing what he perceived as excessive fees charged by Panama.
“We’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else,” Trump stated, even suggesting the possibility of retaking control if Panama doesn’t relent on its pricing.
This statement prompted a swift response from José Raúl Mulino, Panama’s Foreign Minister, who asserted, “Every square meter of the Panama Canal and the surrounding area belongs to Panama, and will continue to. The sovereignty and independence of our country are non-negotiable. It’s part of our history of struggle and an irreversible victory.”
Trump and Musk are unlikely to stop triggering leftists any time soon.
