In a fiery exchange on Fox News, anchor Julie Banderas clashed with former New York State Senator David Carlucci (D) over the influence of Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s leadership style. The debate highlighted partisan tensions and raised questions about transparency and decision-making in the White House.
The segment aired during Banderas’s guest-hosting stint on The Faulkner Focus. Carlucci initiated the heated discussion by expressing concerns about Musk’s alleged involvement in shaping government policy. He suggested that Musk’s growing influence could raise alarm about who truly holds power in Washington.
“If we’re concerned about who’s calling the shots in the White House, we should stand up and do something about it,” Carlucci asserted. “Because I think we should have concerns about co-president Elon Musk in the White House.”
Banderas immediately fired back, dismissing the idea as a “Democratic talking point” and defending both Musk and Trump. “No, that’s such a Democratic talking point about Musk, come on!” she exclaimed.
“Musk and Trump Are Not Comparable to Biden and Harris”
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The debate escalated as Banderas argued that Musk’s role is focused on reducing government spending—a task she framed as essential for addressing the country’s $35 trillion debt.
“Donald Trump isn’t letting anybody take the wind out of his sails,” she stated emphatically. “Do you know the guy? He’s not going to let Elon Musk come in and make decisions, just like Biden didn’t let Kamala Harris do a darn thing.”
Carlucci countered by suggesting that Musk’s influence appears to extend beyond his official duties. “It looks that way if he’s making calls to foreign leaders,” he said.
“How does it look that way?” Banderas interjected. “His job with DOGE is to cut down spending. Something the country desperately needs.” She also lauded Musk as a “smart businessman” who could bring valuable expertise to government, contrasting him with Vice President Kamala Harris.
“Wouldn’t you want a smart businessman in office, or do you want Kamala Harris?” she asked pointedly.
Transparency and Leadership Styles
Carlucci’s concerns about transparency persisted, as he argued for clarity about who is “calling the shots.” He emphasized the importance of accountability in government decision-making.
“If we’re talking about who’s calling the shots, then let’s call a spade a spade and make sure there is transparency,” he urged.
Banderas dismissed these worries, shifting the conversation back to Biden. “President Trump isn’t even in the office yet, so I don’t even know what you mean, ‘calling the shots,’” she said. “But, I mean, somebody certainly needs to call the shots, and under Biden, we really don’t know who is calling the shots.”
The Fox anchor also took aim at Biden’s leadership style, accusing him of hiding behind closed doors. “I don’t know who pardoned all of these people or who decided to make all these decisions,” she said, adding, “At least Donald Trump is out there talking to the American public! He’s engaging! You know what? I’d rather a president that engages with us than hides behind closed doors!”
A Snapshot of Broader Divisions
The debate reflects the broader ideological divide between Democrats and Republicans on issues like transparency, fiscal responsibility, and leadership. For conservatives like Banderas, Musk’s business acumen and Trump’s engagement with the public represent a refreshing contrast to what they see as the opacity and passivity of the Biden administration.
For Democrats like Carlucci, however, the rise of figures like Musk in government roles raises questions about power dynamics and accountability. As the political landscape continues to shift, these debates are likely to intensify, particularly as Trump prepares to return to office.
Watch the video below:
Featured image via screengrab
