Summary
MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell criticized Donald Trump’s Oval Office press conference with Elon Musk, calling it “the most powerless image of a president” ever.
Musk dominated the event—standing over Trump, speaking more words, and violating White House norms with his casual attire and child’s presence.
O’Donnell contrasted Musk’s influence with Trump’s past and present vice presidents, arguing that neither Mike Pence nor JD Vance would challenge Trump’s authority in such a manner.
Think of the relationship as a CEO and the chairman of the board, this is the way Trump sees it. The CEO is front and center but does the bidding of the chairman.
I don’t think this is accurate of course but I’m sure Trump sees it this way.