(MENAFN) Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, has sparked controversy by suggesting that the United States lacks a true president and has not had one "for a while." Musk made these remarks on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), entering into the ongoing political debate following the debates between current President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. He shared a screenshot of an opinion piece from the New York Times titled "Does America need a president?" with a caption that questioned the presence of effective leadership in recent times.

The article, authored by social conservative columnist Ross Douthat, delves into the role of the presidency in American society. It explores whether a dysfunctional president can be adequately substituted by other executive branch officials, discusses the impact of leadership on decision-making and accountability, and raises broader questions about governance in the current political climate.

Douthat, known for his critiques of Biden's presidency even before the contentious debates, has argued for the necessity of replacing Biden, citing concerns over his age and the potential implications of his leadership for the next four years. These discussions come at a critical juncture in American politics, where debates over presidential effectiveness and the direction of leadership remain central issues.

Musk's comments have ignited a broader conversation about the nature of presidential authority and effectiveness, reflecting ongoing concerns about governance and leadership in the United States. As the nation grapples with these debates, the role and responsibilities of the presidency continue to be subjects of intense scrutiny and debate among political commentators and the public alike.

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