James O'Keefe's undercover video has captured White House staffers openly criticizing President Trump, with one senior budget analyst saying Trump is 'dangerous' and that 'We've got to get rid of Trump.' The footage, published by O'Keefe Media, also shows a domestic policy official admitting that some administration decisions are made without Trump's direct involvement. The White House has not publicly addressed the recordings, which have not been independently verified.
What the Undercover Footage Shows
Maxim Lott, Special Assistant to the President for the Domestic Policy Council, told the undercover interviewer that some domestic policy decisions are based on what staff think Trump would say or 'feels like a good idea' — not a direct order from the president. He gave robocall policy as an example. Benjamin Elliston, a senior budget analyst in the Executive Office of the President, went further, calling Trump 'dangerous' and claiming Trump believes he is 'invincible' and 'nothing can stop him.' Elliston also raised concerns about private donations for a White House ballroom renovation, possible taxpayer money for a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar, and alleged insider trading linked to Iran policy and oil prices.
Staffer Denies Wrongdoing, Another Stays Silent
Lott issued a written statement denying any contradiction with the administration and reaffirming his commitment to Trump's agenda. Elliston, when contacted by O'Keefe Media, offered no substantive comment. O'Keefe has not released the full unedited footage, and the segments have not been independently verified by any news organization.
White House Mum, Critics Cry Bias
The White House has not publicly addressed the recordings. Some users noted that Owen Shroyer, who hosted the program, has a known anti-Trump stance, potentially affecting the clips' credibility. O'Keefe Media has a history of undercover stings that have drawn both praise and criticism.
Trump Allies Demand Action
Trump allies called for the immediate termination of both officials and for an inspector general or congressional inquiry into the statements. Whether the White House will respond to those demands or whether Congress will open an investigation remains unanswered.
