Only 28 days remain until Donald Trump is sworn in as the 47th President of the United States. At a conservative conference held in Arizona, Trump responded to Democrats' criticisms of Elon Musk's excessive power, humorously clarifying that Musk would not become the "shadow president." However, during the Trump administration's transition period, the role of this tech billionaire has become a widely discussed topic.

Trump responds to 'shadow president' allegations

At the Turning Point USA conservative conference in Phoenix, Trump faced attacks from Democrats who mockingly referred to Musk as "President Musk." Trump humorously responded by pointing out that Musk was born in South Africa and cannot become President of the United States. He told supporters, "I'm safe, you know why? Because he wasn't born in this country."

Despite this, some Republicans express concern over Musk's influence. Texas Republican Congressman Tony Gonzalez remarked that during recent budget negotiations, Musk's influence seemed like that of a "prime minister." Trump himself downplayed his relationship with Musk, even joking, "I can't get rid of him."

Reports indicate that Musk accompanied Trump to many important meetings, including private discussions in Florida. The billionaire's close involvement has sparked discussions about his influence over the new administration.

Trump's threat to the Panama Canal

At the same conference, Trump made a highly publicized statement threatening to regain control of the Panama Canal. He stated that if Panama fails to adhere to the ethical and legal principles of the canal handover, the U.S. will demand full recovery of the Panama Canal.

Trump criticized Panama for charging excessive fees for ships, arguing that these "outrageous costs" harm U.S. interests. He claimed, "We will not tolerate this; if Panama cannot treat us fairly, the canal must be returned to the U.S."

Panama responds: We will guard the Panama Canal

The Panamanian government quickly responded to Trump's threats. Conservative President Jose Molino stated that regardless of other domestic issues, the people of Panama will unite on the issue of canal sovereignty. He emphasized, "The canal belongs to Panama, and we will guard it under the Panamanian flag."

The Panama Canal is crucial to the U.S. economy, bringing in about one-fifth of the income annually. The canal was constructed by the U.S. in the early 20th century and was handed over to Panama in a treaty in 1977. Today, the canal is an important waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and its role in international transport cannot be overlooked.

Trump and Musk: Can their friendship last?

Although the relationship between Trump and Musk seems close at present, how it will develop in the future remains unclear. Trump has previously shown impatience with shared spotlight, and Musk's high-profile behavior could pose challenges to this friendship. Additionally, whether Musk's and Trump's policy positions align may also affect their collaboration.

As Trump prepares to take office, how he handles Musk's influence and whether he can incorporate Musk into his policy objectives will become a focus of public attention.

This article Trump's response to 'President Musk': He wasn't born in the U.S., so it's impossible first appeared in Link News ABMedia.