In a striking development that has captured the attention of social media users and political observers alike, a recently circulated photograph of former President Donald Trump at the White House has revealed an unexpected detail that some are calling “creepy.” The image, which shows the 78-year-old Republican president smiling while positioned in front of a series of portraits of past presidents and holding a model plane, has become the subject of lively online discussion due to an unusual element detected in its background.

The Unusual Detail

Upon closer inspection—specifically, when the left-hand side of the image is magnified—it becomes apparent that an ornate, gold-framed mirror is visible just behind Trump’s right shoulder. In a twist that has both amused and unsettled viewers, the mirror’s reflection appears to capture none other than Elon Musk. The sight of Musk’s reflection in the mirror, as reported by eagle-eyed users on X (formerly Twitter), has triggered a flurry of commentary online.

One user described the occurrence as “easily one of the funniest pictures I’ve ever seen,” while another simply labeled it “Creepy AF!!!” A third commentator remarked on the surreal nature of the image, stating, “That is so creepy.” Additional remarks included references to Musk as “the worst babysitter ever” and “the most transparent puppet master ever,” with one user adding, “And the puppet watches over his toys.”

Contextual Background

This unexpected detail is not the first time that both Trump and Musk have appeared together at the White House. Last week, on February 18, the two figures were seen in a joint interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity at the White House. The interview was broadcast following speculations regarding possible tensions between Trump and Musk. These speculations arose from criticisms leveled at Musk for what some perceived as an overly influential role in Trump’s administration, with suggestions that Musk was encroaching on presidential power—a dynamic that led to the playful moniker “President Musk.”

During the interview, both figures made considerable efforts to present a united front. Musk, for example, was effusive in his praise for the former president, remarking, “I love the president, I just want to be clear about that.” He continued, “I think President Trump is a good man. The president has been so unfairly attacked in the media, it’s really outrageous.” Trump, in return, offered high praise for Musk, describing him in glowing terms as a “brilliant guy” with “tremendous scientific imagination,” and affirming that he is not only innovative but also “a very good person” who wants to see the country do well.