Deepfake Video of Trump and Musk Causes Stir at HUD Headquarters, Raises Cybersecurity Concerns
The 19-second AI-generated video played on a continuous loop in HUD's headquarters
A bizarre incident occurred at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on February 24, 2025, when a deepfake video featuring former President Donald Trump seemingly kissing the toes of Elon Musk was displayed on monitors throughout the building.
The video, titled “Long Live the Real King,” quickly went viral and raised questions regarding cybersecurity and political dynamics within the federal government.
The 19-second AI-generated video played on a continuous loop in HUD’s headquarters, coinciding with a directive for federal employees to return to in-person work.
The footage depicted Trump in a compromising position with Musk, humorously captioned with “Long Live the Real King,” referencing a recent Truth Social post by Trump celebrating his administration’s actions against congestion pricing in New York City.
HUD spokesperson Kasey Lovett condemned the incident as a “waste of taxpayer dollars and resources,” indicating that appropriate actions would be taken against those involved in the unauthorized display. Employees reportedly struggled to turn off the video, leading to confusion and frustration within the agency.
The incident has sparked discussions about Musk’s growing influence in the Trump administration, particularly following his appointment to lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This role has included overseeing significant budget cuts and workforce reductions across federal agencies, leading to tensions among employees.
Experts have expressed alarm over how such a video managed to infiltrate HUD’s internal systems, raising broader concerns about digital security within government offices. The origins of the video remain unclear, with speculation about whether it was an internal prank or an external hack.
This incident not only highlights the intersection of technology and politics but also reflects ongoing tensions within federal operations under Trump’s administration as it navigates new directives and personnel changes.
