The media continues pushing disgusting attacks on Trump.
MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell recently used the opportunity of an impromptu press event in the Oval Office with Elon Musk to push his narrative that the billionaire had “humiliated” former President Donald Trump. The press conference, which took place on Tuesday, saw Musk stand beside Trump’s desk and take center stage, much to the chagrin of O’Donnell. The host seemed less concerned about the substance of Musk’s message about dismantling bureaucratic inefficiencies in the government, and more fixated on his appearance and conduct during the meeting.
O’Donnell’s comments about the press event centered around how Musk, by his demeanor and attire, was sending a clear signal of power. He claimed that Musk’s choice to appear “underdressed” in the Oval Office was an overt statement of dominance, implying that Trump was powerless. O’Donnell accused Musk of intentionally breaking the norms to project a picture of subservience, stating that in the photograph, “Elon Musk is doing everything he possibly can to tell the world, without saying a word, that Donald Trump is not the boss of me.”
The MSNBC host also took aim at Musk’s decision to bring his child, X, to the press event, a move he saw as further undermining Trump’s authority. O’Donnell likened it to “bringing a dog to the home of a person who hates dogs,” referencing Trump’s often-quoted line about firing individuals “like a dog.” In his mind, Musk’s choice to bring his child along was a deliberate gesture to make Trump seem incapable of controlling the situation.
O’Donnell’s commentary was filled with disdain for Musk’s “billionaire power move,” where he defied the traditional expectations of formal attire in the White House. However, many Republican viewers might argue that Musk’s decision to break the mold was simply an extension of his well-known disregard for societal norms and the elitist expectations that often come with them. In fact, rather than signaling weakness or disrespect, Musk’s actions could be seen as further demonstrating his independence from the political establishment and his refusal to adhere to the typical conventions of Washington, D.C.
As much as O’Donnell attempted to criticize Musk, it is clear that his very presence and willingness to challenge the norms is a reflection of the kind of bold leadership that many Republicans admire, especially in contrast to the often rigid and bureaucratic culture that characterizes Washington. In many ways, Musk’s unconventional approach to the event serves as a reminder of the kind of change Republicans champion: one that is not afraid to disrupt the status quo and challenge the entrenched political elite.