On a recent episode of The View, Whoopi Goldberg sparked heated discussion by suggesting that Elon Musk, rather than JD Vance, is effectively Donald Trump’s true vice president. Goldberg claimed Musk’s growing influence in Trump’s administration eclipses Vance’s role, describing him as merely a placeholder. “I believe Elon Musk is the actual vice president.
Yes, I believe that…(Vance is) kind of an interim…But I believe that Musk, he’s the real actual vice president. He’s making decisions, he’s doing things,” Goldberg mused, blending humor with sharp commentary. Goldberg’s remarks coincide with Musk’s recent high-profile appearances alongside Trump, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Over the past weeks, Musk and Trump have been nearly inseparable, attending a UFC match and dining together at Mar-a-Lago. Musk even appeared in the Trump family’s election night photo, further fueling speculation about their close relationship. Trump’s granddaughter jokingly referred to Musk as having achieved “uncle status,” underscoring the personal bond Musk has cultivated with the Trump family.
Musk’s involvement in Trump’s transition team has extended beyond optics. According to insiders, Musk has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since Election Day, advising on cabinet appointments and participating in sensitive discussions. This has led some to describe him as acting like a “co-president.”
Trump has openly praised Musk, calling him “a genius” during campaign rallies and highlighting his achievements in space exploration. “Elon is a great guy, he’s one of our geniuses. We have to protect our geniuses,” Trump said at one event. However, Musk’s growing influence has caused friction within Trump’s inner circle. Some advisors expressed frustration over Musk’s persistent presence.
One insider quipped, “Elon won’t go home. I can’t get rid of him.” Despite these tensions, Musk’s loyalty to Trump is clear. His super PAC contributed over $152 million to Trump’s campaign, and his social media platform, X, has become a powerful amplifier for Trump’s policies.
Musk’s influence within the administration was cemented with his appointment to Trump’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency. Critics have raised ethical concerns about Musk’s dual roles in business and politics, particularly his control of X. The platform’s perceived partisanship has prompted liberal users to migrate to alternatives like Bluesky.
Goldberg criticized the tone of discourse on X, noting, “It’s not just discourse. It’s nasty name-calling…” As Musk’s involvement deepens, debates about his role in Trump’s administration—and its implications—are likely to intensify.