A hacker responsible for a bizarre deepfake video featuring Donald Trump and Elon Musk has been identified and removed from a government office. The video, which showed Trump kissing Musk’s feet, was played on televisions inside the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on February 24, leaving employees stunned. The AI-generated clip, captioned “LONG LIVE THE REAL KING,” quickly went viral on social media.
Officials have confirmed that the hacker is connected to the department and has been escorted off the premises. While the individual’s name has not been released, authorities are investigating the legal consequences of the incident and considering disciplinary measures. A HUD spokesperson told The New York Post that the person had been identified and removed from the building.
The video sparked a mix of reactions online, with some calling it “funny” and others labeling it “disgusting.” Sharp-eyed viewers noted flaws in the AI-generated footage, such as Musk appearing to have “two left feet.” Despite its unsettling nature, the clip became a hot topic of discussion, with some even applauding the hacker’s boldness. Members of the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services humorously tweeted, “Not all heroes wear capes,” in response to the prank.
This incident comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Musk’s role in government efficiency efforts. As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk has been pushing for cost-cutting measures, including the elimination of certain positions. His recent email to federal employees, threatening termination if they failed to provide a list of their weekly accomplishments, has drawn criticism and raised questions about his influence.
The deepfake video highlights the growing capabilities of AI technology and the potential for its misuse. As authorities work to address the situation, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the ethical challenges posed by deepfakes and the need for stronger security measures in government systems.
