Trump Rejects Notion of Ceding Presidency to Musk at AmericaFest, Cites South African Birth

Dec 25, 2024, 04:03 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has addressed speculation about Elon Musk's growing political influence, dismissing claims that he has ceded the presidency to the Tesla CEO during a speech at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest conference. Trump emphasized that Musk, who was born in South Africa, cannot become president due to constitutional requirements. Trump praised Musk's contributions, particularly in leading the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), but firmly rejected the notion of Musk taking over the presidency. Additionally, Trump and Musk have both stated that they will not allow legacy media to drive a wedge between them, highlighting their strong relationship amidst criticisms from Democrats and some Republicans about Musk's influence on Trump's policies.