President-elect Donald Trump ignited curiosity and debate with a cryptic post on Truth Social Friday, hinting at an invitation extended to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates while seemingly directing a message to Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.
Trump’s post read:
“Where are you? When are you coming to the ‘Center of the Universe,’ Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Year’s Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! DJT.”
The message has sparked widespread speculation. The mention of “x” is widely believed to be a nod to Musk and his son, X Æ A-Xii. Musk, recently named by Trump as co-leader of his government efficiency initiative, has been a polarizing figure within Trump’s base due to his support for expanding the H-1B visa program.
Bill Gates and Mar-a-Lago
CNN reported that Gates had reached out to Trump’s team about a potential meeting at Mar-a-Lago. While no confirmation of the meeting has been made, Gates has a history of engaging with political leaders on global health and technology initiatives. Trump and Gates previously met in December 2016 during Trump’s first transition to the presidency.
Since Trump’s election victory, Mar-a-Lago has become a hub for high-profile meetings with tech CEOs and corporate leaders. Sources familiar with these meetings describe them as strategic opportunities for businesses to align with Trump’s economic priorities, particularly around job creation and domestic manufacturing.
Reaction from Social Media
Trump’s post has drawn significant backlash from conservative commentators and Trump loyalists who are critical of Gates. Some have raised concerns about Gates’ perceived political alignment and his role in global public health initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck tweeted,
“Bill Gates should be in a prison cell, not inside Mar-a-Lago. He’s not there to kiss the ring. Gates is there to lie and manipulate.”
Former West Virginia lawmaker Derrick Evans echoed these sentiments, stating,
“I will be excited when Bill Gates is arrested for his crimes against humanity. We are NOT the same.”
Political commentator Gunther Eagleman added,
“Bill Gates should be in prison, not hanging out at Mar-a-Lago.”
Elon Musk and Trump’s Inner Circle
Musk, who has been a vocal advocate for innovation and immigration reform, has faced criticism from Trump’s base over his support for visa programs like H-1B, which some argue could undercut American workers. Trump’s reference to Musk in the post, coupled with the invitation to Gates, has fueled speculation about potential collaborations or policy discussions.
Musk’s relationship with Trump has been complicated, marked by both mutual respect and occasional differences on key policy issues. Whether Musk will respond to the invitation remains unclear.
The Road Ahead
As Trump prepares for his second term, the meeting with Gates—if it occurs—could signal a continued focus on public-private partnerships in areas like technology and health. The inclusion of high-profile figures like Musk and Gates in Trump’s orbit suggests the administration may pursue initiatives that blend innovation with economic growth.
Whether Trump’s base will embrace these developments, however, remains an open question. The reactions to Gates’ potential presence at Mar-a-Lago underline the challenges Trump faces in navigating relationships with figures seen as controversial by his supporters.
Sources:
- CNN: Bill Gates reaches out to Trump transition team
- Truth Social Post Screenshot: @realDonaldTrump
- Public Reactions: Robby Starbuck, Derrick Evans, Gunther Eagleman on Twitter/X
