Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has been reportedly staying at a cottage within Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, raising questions about the extent of his influence on the president-elect. This arrangement has led to scrutiny of Musk's role as a key advisor, donor, and now, a tenant of Trump's estate.
According to a recent New York Times report, Musk has been residing at the Banyan cottage, which has previously been rented for at least $2,000 per night. While the exact financial details of Musk's stay remain unclear, his proximity to Trump has fueled discussions about potential influence and access to the president-elect.
Musk's involvement with Trump's transition goes beyond his presence at Mar-a-Lago. Reports indicate his participation in discussions with foreign leaders and his influence on staffing decisions. This level of engagement has led some to describe him as a "shadow president" within Trump's inner circle.
The extent of Musk's involvement in Trump's affairs has drawn criticism, with some viewing it as a way for the billionaire to exert influence. Concerns have been raised about the potential for conflicts of interest given his substantial financial contributions to Trump’s campaign and his ongoing business dealings.
Further adding to the narrative of Musk’s sway, it's reported that he has made unique requests during his stay at the resort, such as meals outside normal kitchen hours. While his stay reportedly paused at Christmas, there is anticipation of his return to Mar-a-Lago. The arrangement has triggered a wide array of reactions, particularly from critics who view it as an example of influence being bought through proximity.
