President Donald Trump has once again fired back at mainstream media and political pundits over their latest wave of criticism targeting his partnership with Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The Republican leader, known for his combative stance against media narratives, dismissed the allegations as predictable and ineffective attempts to undermine his administration.
Trump Dismisses Media Criticism: ‘They’re Bad at It’
During an exclusive interview on Hannity, set to air Tuesday, Feb. 18, Trump took aim at the media’s relentless scrutiny of his collaboration with Musk.
“It’s just so obvious. They’re so bad at it. I used to think they were good at it. They’re actually bad at it because if they were good at it, I’d never be president,” Trump said, ridiculing the media’s attempts to create division.
The latest controversy centers around claims that Musk has effectively seized control over key governmental functions through DOGE, with some critics even dubbing the Tesla co-founder “President Elon Musk.” These accusations have gained traction among Democratic lawmakers and media figures, fueling a contentious debate over the billionaire entrepreneur’s role in shaping government policies.
Musk and Trump: A Strategic Alliance Under Fire
Despite facing backlash, the partnership between Trump and Musk remains unshaken. During the Hannity interview, Trump revealed that Musk had reached out to him, expressing concern over the media’s attempt to sow discord between them.
“Actually, Elon called me — he said, you know, ‘They’re trying to drive us apart.’ I said, ‘Absolutely,’” Trump stated, emphasizing their mutual recognition of the strategy employed against them.
Fox News host Sean Hannity echoed this sentiment, arguing that the media’s objective is to “divorce” the executive partnership and incite conflict between the two influential figures. However, both Trump and Musk maintain that their shared vision for reducing government inefficiency and streamlining operations through DOGE aligns with the broader interests of the American public.
House Democrats Take Aim at Musk Over DOGE
As expected, opposition voices within the Democratic Party have intensified their scrutiny of Musk’s expanding influence. A recent congressional subcommittee hearing on DOGE saw House Democrats openly question Musk’s authority, challenging the legitimacy of his policy decisions and operational directives within the federal government.
Critics argue that Musk’s deep involvement in governmental affairs extends beyond the traditional advisory role, leading to concerns over executive overreach. Some Democratic lawmakers have gone as far as labeling Musk’s influence as a “shadow presidency,” an assertion that Trump and Musk dismiss as nothing more than political theater.
Trump and Musk: ‘The American People Get It’
Despite the controversy, Trump remains resolute in his defense of Musk’s role in the administration. Both leaders assert that their joint efforts are aimed at cutting costs, enhancing efficiency, and streamlining the federal government — priorities they believe resonate with the American electorate.
“The American people are smart. They get it,” Trump affirmed, reinforcing the notion that voters recognize the tangible benefits of the administration’s cost-cutting and downsizing measures.
With a defiant stance against the media’s attempts to drive a wedge between them, Trump and Musk appear unwavering in their alliance. As the debate over DOGE and Musk’s role in government continues to unfold, their partnership remains a formidable force in shaping the administration’s policy direction.
For the full interview, tune in to Hannity on Tuesday, Feb. 18, for an exclusive sit-down with President Trump.
