Trump-Musk Partnership 'Could Last' Despite Criticisms, Analysis by Maggie Haberman

The Potential Longevity of the Trump-Musk Partnership

National political correspondent Maggie Haberman weighed into the relationship between President-elect Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, indicating that because of its uniqueness, the partnership could "last for quite some time." Asked by CNN's John Berman where she sees the relationship going, Haberman suggested that despite criticism, the two seem to still be hitting it off.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Haberman noted, "Look it's in good standing now. There has certainly been a lot of complaints from people around Trump, beginning soon after Election Day, that Elon Musk was there too much. He was sitting in transition meetings that some people didn't care for him to be present for... But if Trump is getting tired of him, Trump is not making that, especially public."

Her comments come as the president-elect and SpaceX owner have become close since Musk endorsed Trump for the White House, following the first assassination attempt on his life during a campaign rally earlier this year. He also stumped for Trump while on the campaign trail, drawing scrutiny over a $1 million giveaway he promised to voters.

New Department of Government Efficiency

Earlier this month, Trump tapped Musk to serve in his administration as the head of a new "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE), which aims to "slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures" and restructure federal agencies. Trump stated that it could become "The Manhattan Project of our time."

Wealth and Influence in the Relationship

In the Wednesday interview, Haberman acknowledged that Musk and Trump share a common bond: wealth. "You know, where I could see Trump chafing here and there... one of the things that people around him have come to realize over time is that scarcity is a commodity for them."

She highlighted that Trump equates wealth with intelligence, suggesting this relationship could endure. The relationship has also caused intrigue among Republicans, raising questions about how long the two can coexist, especially given Trump's history with spotlight-stealing figures.

Engagement in Political Dynamics

Many in Trump's orbit have expressed skepticism about Musk's growing influence within the transition. As the political scene unfolds, all eyes will remain on this unlikely partnership.