Trump Ruthlessly Mocked For Claim That Era of 'Unelected Bureaucrats' Is Over: 'Elon Is Basically Co-President'

President Donald Trump was mocked online for a particular line of his address to Congress where he claimed that "the days of rule by unelected bureaucrats are over," with many online rushing to highlight Elon Musk's powerful role in the government.

"Got to admit this one didn't quite land since Elon is basically Co-President," said Dave Portnoy, creator of Barstool Sports and who boasts a large online following. Perceived as more aligned with the Republican party, some criticized him for not supporting Trump ("Pick a side dude," one user said), but others agreed. "No one elected him and he's been given so much power in the government," a user said in his comments.

Others echoed the message, including Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren, who said "I agree with Donald Trump that an unelected bureaucrat should be fired. Let's start with Elon Musk."

Several other lawmakers posted similar messages, all of them focused on Musk.

Most viewers, however, approved of the message, according to a poll conducted immediately after the event ended.

The survey, conducted by CBS News and YouGov, explained nonetheless that the audience was mostly comprised of Republicans, as viewership tends to skew toward the party in power. 51% of respondents identified themselves as Republicans, 27% as independents and just 20% as Democrats.

Concretely, 76% of respondents approved of Trump's address, compared to 23% who didn't. Fewer of those who approved said the president spent "a lot" of time on issues they care about, with 63%. An additional 28% said he spent "a little" on them while the remaining 9% believed he didn't spend any time at all.

Trump praised Musk during a passage of his speech, making reference to the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). After Musk got up to recognize applause from members of the chamber, Trump said: "He didn't need this. Thank you very much, we appreciate it. Everybody here, even this side appreciates it, they just don't want to admit it," he added, making reference to Democrats.