Video of Trump kissing Musk's feet appears at DC building
What's the story
A controversial AI-generated video aired on television screens inside the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) building on Monday.
The video showed President Donald Trump kissing the feet of Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
The footage was accompanied by the words "Long live the real king." It was apparently a reference to Trump's recent Truth Social post that read, "Long Live the King!" while celebrating his administration's order to halt the congestion pricing tolls in New York City.
Official response
HUD spokesperson criticizes incident, promises action
Speaking on the incident, HUD spokesperson Kasey Lovett told The Hill it was "another waste of taxpayer dollars and resources."
Lovett also promised that "appropriate action will be taken for all involved."
It remains unclear who was responsible for the hoax.
Since last year, social media users have shared similar AI-generated videos and still photographs of Trump kissing Musk's feet.
Power dynamics
Musk's growing influence and recent directives stir controversy
Musk who also owns social platform X, has become a staunch Trump ally.
His increasing grip over federal agencies has been controversial, particularly after his order resulted in thousands of government employees being fired.
Just recently, Musk sparked controversy by asking government employees to list five accomplishments weekly or resign—a move that was opposed by several agencies.
Media speculation
Trump and Musk deny claims of power imbalance
The Trump-Musk relationship has been closely examined as critics allege that Musk has a lot of influence over Trump.
Both men have refuted the allegations.
In a joint interview earlier this month, they claimed that there was a concerted effort by the media to drive them apart.
Musk is in charge of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and is leading Trump's efforts to downsize the federal government.