Trump and Musk’s Growing Alliance
Trump Doubles Down in Extended Super Bowl Interview, Backs Musk & Defends His Leadership
President Donald Trump kept up his momentum in an extended version of his Super Bowl interview that aired Monday, reaffirming his trust in billionaire Elon Musk and defending his assertive use of executive authority.
In a one-on-one conversation with Fox News’ Bret Baier, Trump projected confidence, highlighting how he has learned to navigate Washington more effectively in his second term. Reflecting on his past appointments, he admitted, “I put people in office—some great, some good, but some I wouldn’t have put if I had more experience in D.C.”
The economy remains a top concern for Americans, with a USA TODAY/Suffolk University poll showing 47% prioritizing economic issues. Rising prices, driven in part by the H5N1 bird flu, have led to egg purchase limits at Trader Joe’s and surcharges at Waffle House. However, Trump sidestepped questions on when prices would drop, instead emphasizing the need to stop foreign nations from “taking advantage of us” and defending his tariff policies.
Key Takeaways:
- Trust in Musk: Trump expressed confidence in Elon Musk’s role in improving government efficiency.
- Lessons Learned: He acknowledged past missteps in staffing but said he now understands Washington better.
- Economic Concerns: Inflation and consumer anxiety remain top voter concerns, but Trump avoided giving a timeline for relief.
- Trade & Tariffs: He stood by his tough stance on foreign trade, insisting the U.S. must stop being exploited.
Trump’s remarks underscored his commitment to an aggressive economic and political strategy as he moves forward in his second term.
Trump Stands by Musk, Suggests Canada Should Join the U.S.
Backing Musk Despite Controversy
President Donald Trump reaffirmed his trust in Elon Musk, calling him a “great guy” and “extremely intelligent,” despite mounting legal battles and political opposition. Musk, who contributed over $250 million to Trump’s 2024 campaign, has become a flashpoint in the new administration, with Democrats challenging his influence. Roughly three dozen lawsuits have been filed against Trump’s executive actions, including efforts to freeze government spending, end birthright citizenship, and overhaul federal agencies. A federal judge recently blocked Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency from accessing government payment systems.
Despite 53% of voters disapproving of Musk’s role—including 56% of independents—Trump is standing by the billionaire, praising his ability to eliminate waste and fraud in government. Musk even boasted on X about dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development, saying he fed it “into the wood chipper.”
Trump Floats Making Canada the 51st State
Trump doubled down on his controversial stance that Canada should become part of the U.S., stating, “I think Canada would be much better off being the 51st state.” This comes as his administration imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, including from Canada and Mexico.
Path to Unity? Trump Says Success Is Key
With the nation deeply divided post-election, Trump insists that economic prosperity is the only way to bring Americans together. While a Pew Research poll shows 40% strongly disapprove of his performance versus 37% who strongly approve, Trump pointed to his first-term pre-pandemic economy as proof that success can heal divisions.
However, he acknowledged certain topics—like border security, transgender athletes, and diversity initiatives—would continue to be points of contention. “We have to come together, but to come together, there’s only one thing that’s going to do it, and that’s massive success,” Trump said.
Trump Shuts Down 2028 Talk, Floats Gaza Redevelopment Plan
Vance 2028? Trump Isn’t Sold Yet
When asked if Vice President JD Vance is his natural successor, Trump dismissed the idea. “No, but he’s very capable,” he said, adding that the GOP has many strong contenders.
A recent poll shows Vance leading the potential 2028 Republican field with 27% support, followed by Donald Trump Jr. at 21%. Despite being term-limited, Trump has long joked about serving beyond eight years, a sentiment he echoed at the National Prayer Breakfast.
Trump Proposes Gaza Redevelopment Without U.S. Troops
Trump defended his controversial idea of acquiring and rebuilding Gaza, arguing that Palestinians should be relocated to other Middle Eastern countries without a right to return. “They wouldn’t, because they’re going to have much better housing,” he stated, calling Gaza a “demolition site.”
His proposal, which has drawn backlash from global leaders and human rights organizations, suggests striking a deal with Jordan and Egypt to take in displaced Palestinians. He also dismissed concerns about U.S. military involvement, insisting “Israel will watch it, because it’s right next to Israel.”