Donald Trump said Elon Musk would not become president amid reports some Republicans are questioning the billionaire’s sweeping influence.

In a speech on Sunday night, the president-elect pushed back on the Democrat’s characterisation of Elon Musk as a de-facto president.

“No, he’s not taking the presidency. I like having smart people,” he said. “They’re on a new kick,” he said, adding: “And I’m safe. You know why? He can’t be. He wasn’t born in this country.”

Republicans have also raised the issue of Mr Musk’s growing power in Mr Trump’s future administration.

Tony Gonzales, a representative from Texas told CBS News on Sunday: “We have a president. We have a vice president. We have a speaker. And it feels … as if Elon Musk is our prime minister.”