Is Elon Musk Trying to Run the White House? Advisors Are Worried About His Power Grab

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has emerged as a central figure in President-elect Donald Trump’s inner circle, drawing both admiration and concern from Trump’s advisers. Musk’s rapid ascent within Trump’s orbit has reportedly sparked tension among senior aides, who worry about his influence over the incoming administration.

According to a report from NBC News on Wednesday, several advisers are alarmed by Musk’s overreach, accusing him of interfering with the presidential transition process. One adviser, speaking anonymously, said, “He’s behaving as if he’s a co-president and making sure everyone knows it.”

Musk’s role was formalized when Trump appointed him to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), recognizing Musk’s contributions to the campaign. However, sources claim that Musk has been weighing in on various issues beyond his designated portfolio, including budget reforms and federal restructuring. His outspoken nature and penchant for influencing discussions have reportedly irked other advisers.

An adviser noted that Musk holds strong opinions on various issues and seeks recognition as someone who understands global events. Some individuals within Trump’s camp have expressed concerns that Musk might be focusing more on his own agenda than on supporting the administration’s goals, which could potentially overshadow Trump’s campaign promises.

Despite the growing unease, Trump remains steadfast in his support of Musk. At his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump reportedly praised Musk’s dedication during the campaign, noting that the billionaire had put his business interests on hold to assist, all without expecting personal rewards. Musk has also become a frequent presence at Mar-a-Lago, spending more time there since the election than at his Austin home. His close relationship with the Trump family was underscored by a social media post from Trump’s granddaughter, Kai, who affectionately referred to him as “Uncle Elon.”

Analysts, however, are skeptical about the longevity of this alliance. They point to the stark contrasts in their personalities and past clashes, including Musk’s criticism of Trump during the 2016 election and Trump’s dismissal of Musk as “worthless without government subsidies.” These deep-seated differences, they argue, could make their current partnership unsustainable in the long term.