Musk was instrumental in Trump’s election victory, contributing over $250 million to the campaign and leveraging his social media platform, X, to amplify Trump’s message. Following the election, Musk has become one of Trump’s closest advisers. He has attended key personnel meetings at Mar-a-Lago’s Teahouse, sat in on calls with world leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and spent countless hours in Trump’s private office.
Employees from Musk’s various companies have also played a pivotal role in the transition process. They have been actively involved in vetting candidates for senior administration roles, conducting interviews at the Trump transition headquarters in West Palm Beach.
Life at Mar-a-Lago
Staying in the Banyan cottage, just a few hundred feet from the main house, Musk’s presence at Mar-a-Lago has not gone unnoticed. Known for his particular tastes, Musk has reportedly requested meals outside of standard kitchen hours. While staying at the estate, he has been accompanied by two of his children, their nannies, and Shivon Zilis, the mother of some of his children.
Trump has reportedly bragged about hosting Musk, although it is unclear if the billionaire will be charged the full rental amount for his stay. Historically, the cottage has been rented by high-profile figures such as former Speaker John Boehner. Musk’s proximity to the president-elect has allowed him to drop in on dinners, including one with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Influence and Controversy
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Musk’s extensive involvement in the transition has led to concerns among some of Trump’s advisers, who feel the billionaire’s influence may be excessive. Trump, however, has publicly dismissed such rumors, stating, “No, he’s not taking the presidency.”
As co-chairman of the new Department of Government Efficiency, Musk has proposed drastic measures, including firing hundreds of thousands of civil servants and closing federal agencies to reduce government spending. These ideas have earned him unexpected support from figures like Senators Bernie Sanders and John Fetterman, who have praised his commitment to cutting waste.
Musk’s Global Impact
Musk’s influence extends far beyond Mar-a-Lago. International leaders have taken note of his actions and comments. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz used his New Year’s Eve address to criticize Musk after the billionaire endorsed Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Similarly, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has faced criticism from Musk, who claimed that “very few” businesses would invest in Britain under Starmer’s administration.
What’s Next for Musk?
Musk is expected to continue advising Trump during the transition period. However, his unrestricted access to the president-elect may change once Trump takes office on January 20. The West Wing’s more formal protocols will likely limit Musk’s ability to influence policy as freely as he has at Mar-a-Lago.
As the nation prepares for Trump’s inauguration, Musk’s unique role as a donor, adviser, and tenant in Trump’s inner circle highlights his growing political influence and the intersection of wealth, technology, and power in modern governance.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery