President Donald Trump claimed he did not know Time magazine was still a thing—even though he won the outlet’s Person of the Year title in December 2024. On February 7, during a meeting with Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House, Trump was asked about the magazine’s latest cover depicting billionaire Elon Musk sitting at Trump’s Resolute Desk. The cover story, titled "Inside Elon Musk's War on Washington," teases Musk's recent control over several federal agencies through his own Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), fueling concerns of overreach.
Responding to the reporter's question about the cover's portrayal of Musk as potentially more influential than himself, Trump smirked and retorted, "Is Time magazine still in business? I didn't even know about it." Despite his apparent disregard for the magazine, Trump praised Musk, stating, "Elon is doing a great job. He’s finding tremendous fraud and corruption and waste." This statement came amid Musk's controversial initiatives to streamline operations within the federal government, particularly with the United States Agency for International Development, which he has effectively shut down under his oversight.
Earlier, Trump was awarded Person of the Year by Time magazine for the second time, having previously received the honor after winning the presidential election back in 2016. Celebrated for his impact on American politics, Trump remarked at the time, "Time magazine, getting this honor for the second time, I think I like it even more this time." His excitement over being featured sharply contrasts with his dismissive stance on the latest Musk cover.
While Trump ostensibly acted nonchalant about Time magazine's relevance—a publication he has often derided—his history shows deep concern for its title. The magazine’s editor-in-chief had previously defended their choice to recognize Trump, emphasizing his transformative role and influence within the political arena. "This is someone who made a historic comeback, who reshaped the American presidency," said editor Sam Jacobs, reinforcing the significance of Trump's status within the media.
Musk's latest cover coincides with both his growing influence and the perception among some Democrats of his overstepping boundaries, sparking the phrase "President Musk" to circulate. Critics suggest Musk is stepping beyond civil service norms, raising questions about the balance of power within the U.S. government. Trump, seemingly unfazed by this backlash, insists on Musk’s contributions to rooting out inefficiencies and corruption within federal systems.
The stark juxtaposition of Trump celebrating his accolades with Time and dismissing the magazine minutes later encapsulates the complexity of their relationship. While Trump celebrates their past acknowledgment, he now treats it with derision as it casts Musk—his ally—in the light of potential supremacy.
Donning the role of the magnate who is reshaping Washington, Musk's ambitions could set the stage for future government restructuring. Trump indicated he would soon make Musk available for press briefings, acknowledging the CEO's willingness to engage with the media. "He is not shy," Trump noted, hinting at Musk's burgeoning role on the political stage.
Musk's lighthearted remark on social media, "I love @realDonaldTrump as much as a straight man can love another man," shows the camaraderie between the two, even as it contrasts with Trump’s reticent attitude toward being supplanted within the governmental hierarchy.
Intriguingly, Trump’s comments and the surrounding discussions imply his unyielding desire for acknowledgement and validation from media outlets like Time, even when he presents indifference. The former president’s mix of jubilation and disdain reveals much about his public persona—a constant push and pull between seeking celebrity and asserting dominance.
Elon Musk's depiction on Time's cover likely opens discussions not just about the power dynamics within Trump's administration but about the larger role billionaires like Musk are increasingly playing within American politics. Whether this path leads to shared power or larger confrontations remains to be seen as Trump and Musk navigate their coalescing interests, ambitions, and the governmental challenges at hand. How they choose to face criticism and leverage their media presence will undoubtedly shape public perception and influence opinions across party lines moving forward.