Fox News DOGE Interview: Key Figure Missing?

A recent Fox News interview with Elon Musk and members of the DOGE team has sparked online debate, not about the cryptocurrency itself, but about who was present – and notably absent – from the discussion. Jesse Watters’ “Primetime” segment, filmed during what was described as a weekly 10 p.m. DOGE meeting in the Eisenhower Building, featured several individuals associated with the project, including a 19-year-old student named Edward Coristine, who goes by the nickname “Big Balls.” Coristine’s inclusion drew immediate scrutiny, given his reportedly brief and contentious work history, including a prior internship termination for alleged information leaks.

However, the bigger point of contention online centered on the absence of Amy Gleason, identified by the White House as DOGE’s “acting administrator.” Several observers questioned why Gleason wasn’t included in the Fox News segment, particularly given the administration’s previous assertions that neither DOGE nor Elon Musk hold true decision-making authority.

Tech journalist Mike Masnick highlighted the discrepancy on social media, noting Gleason’s absence and referencing a Lawfare exposé detailing her appointment as a legal formality. Similar questions were raised by other prominent social media users, including BlueSky poster covie93, who directly questioned why the individual the White House designated as being “in charge” wasn’t present.

The interview also drew commentary on the presentation of the DOGE team itself. The Sunday Mirror’s Mikey Smith mocked Coristine’s appearance, while political commentator Family-guy noted what they perceived as “lies and ridiculous accusations” during the segment, specifically referencing claims about fraudulent activity targeting the system. Journalist Kim Zetter observed Musk’s tendency to praise Trump and his administration despite past disagreements regarding DOGE.

Notably, reaction on Elon Musk’s own platform, X, was overwhelmingly positive. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene lauded the DOGE team as “patriots” and “heroes,” and Michael Reagan challenged other news networks to conduct similar interviews.

The entire situation underscores the complex and often contradictory narratives surrounding DOGE. While Fox News presented a particular view, the online response reveals a strong interest in the power dynamics within the project and a skepticism regarding the stated roles of key individuals. The focus shifted quickly from the cryptocurrency itself to questions of transparency and accountability, highlighting the ongoing scrutiny surrounding DOGE and its leadership. It’s a clear example of how media appearances can inadvertently raise more questions than they answer, particularly when dealing with a subject as unconventional and politically charged as this.