Is Time magazine still in business?": Trump mocks cover featuring Elon Musk as President

When pressed on whether he had seen the magazine, he responded, "No... Is Time Magazine still in business? I didn't even know that."

The latest cover of Time Magazine has sparked widespread discussion as it features billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk sitting behind the Resolute Desk, seemingly in the role of the President of the United States. This bold visual choice appears to be a direct provocation, particularly aimed at U.S. President Donald Trump.

The striking red cover showcases Musk casually holding a cup of coffee, positioned between the American and presidential flags. The timing of this cover is significant, as it follows Trump's decision to appoint Musk as the head of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with reducing fraudulent federal spending.

When asked about the cover by a reporter, Trump dismissed it with a characteristic quip, questioning whether Time Magazine was "still in business." This reaction stands in contrast to his recent celebration of being named Time’s 'Person of the Year' for 2024, an honor he first received after his 2016 election victory.

NEW: Reporter asks Trump about his reaction to the new TIME cover depicting Elon Musk as president, Trump replies by saying he didn't realize TIME was still in business.Reporter: "Do you have a reaction to the TIME Magazine cover that has Elon Musk sitting behind your resolute pic.twitter.com/GlcoGPqvKh
Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 7, 2025

The magazine cover accompanies a feature article titled "Musk’s War on Washington," authored by Simon Schuster and Brian Bennett. The piece explores how Musk’s new role gives him sweeping influence over the federal government, with millions of government employees now operating under the policies set by DOGE’s leadership. The article suggests that Musk’s accountability rests solely with President Trump, who has entrusted him with significant authority to align government operations with his administration’s agenda.

Trump’s remarks on the cover came during a press conference with the Japanese Prime Minister at the White House. When pressed on whether he had seen the magazine, he responded, "No... Is Time Magazine still in business? I didn't even know that."

This latest move by Time Magazine underscores Musk’s growing influence in Washington and highlights the complex, and often provocative, relationship between Musk and Trump. Whether the cover is an artistic statement, political commentary, or a deliberate effort to stoke controversy, it has certainly succeeded in reigniting debates about power, influence, and media representation in the U.S. political landscape.