Inside Mar-a-Lago, the chaotic Trump epicenter: patio pitches, transition meetings and rogue guests

Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump’s opulent Palm Beach estate, has become the heart of his presidential transition, drawing a wide array of visitors eager to influence the incoming administration. Foreign dignitaries, contractors, and would-be political appointees have flooded into Florida, securing hotel rooms and rental properties to gain direct access to the president-elect and his inner circle. The exclusive club, where Trump has spent much of his post-election time, has turned into a hub of power plays, political networking, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering.

For many, getting face time with Trump is a priority. Some have resorted to paying Mar-a-Lago members to gain entry to the club and rub elbows with the president-elect. “I don’t even know what member I went in with,” one guest admitted after a visit with former administration officials. Though there are no strict guest restrictions at Mar-a-Lago, members who typically enjoy reciprocal access at Trump’s other properties are pushing for an invitation to this club, even offering to pay others for a chance to join.

But while some are there to see the scene, many guests have a different objective: securing a role in the next administration. One source close to Trump recounted a surprising encounter with a person who claimed they were in line to become press secretary, despite the fact that the source had never met the individual before. Another guest had to report a visitor to the club’s security, alleging that they were leaking private conversations and had an “unhinged” social media presence.

Despite the chaotic energy surrounding the transition, advisers insist that the process is far more orderly this time. Trump’s decision to appoint Susie Wiles, his campaign manager, as chief of staff has reassured many in his orbit that a seasoned professional is running the show. During the day, formal meetings take place, where advisers present Trump with policy plans and personnel choices. But it’s after dark when things truly get wild.

Each evening, the property is alive with activity as members and guests gather to greet Trump and former first lady Melania Trump as they walk to their usual table on the patio. Trump’s Secret Service detail is always close by, but he still makes time to stop and chat with visitors, shaking hands and thanking them for their presence. Although his table is roped off, this doesn’t stop guests from approaching him or attempting to pitch ideas as he walks by. One observer described the scene as a constant flow of people trying to sell their ideas to the president-elect, sometimes even interrupting him during his meal.

Some of these interactions involve high-level political figures, including lawmakers and would-be administration officials, who approach Trump with offers or suggestions. However, insiders stress that all official appointments and decisions are supposed to be routed through proper channels, despite the casual atmosphere at Mar-a-Lago.

Among the more frequent visitors to the club is tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has effectively set up a base at Mar-a-Lago. Musk, along with his private security team, has been spotted at the resort nearly every day since Trump’s election victory. Other notable figures have made appearances as well, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was seen interacting with fans and posing for photos at the club.

Mar-a-Lago has long been a source of frustration for national security officials, due to its combination of high-profile guests, informal atmosphere, and Trump’s tendency to mix business with pleasure. The “Winter White House” has garnered criticism for making it difficult to protect sensitive government information, with Trump’s casual approach to security drawing concerns about leaks and potential vulnerabilities. The mixing of politics with Trump’s business interests has also sparked debate, as the resort and Trump’s other properties serve as venues for high-dollar fundraisers and events that benefit the former president’s financial empire.

This blending of business and politics has brought significant financial rewards to Trump. Throughout 2023, his properties raked in millions of dollars from political groups, Republican candidates, and supporters. The spending on Trump’s businesses in 2023 was on track to surpass any previous year since his election in 2016. Glitzy Mar-a-Lago fundraisers, stays at Trump hotels, and flights on his private jet have turned his brand into an even more lucrative enterprise.

In the midst of this, the chaotic scene at Mar-a-Lago stands as a testament to Trump’s blending of personal interests, political ambitions, and business dealings. While the formal transition team operates behind closed doors, the public spectacle of Trump’s post-election period at Mar-a-Lago reflects the often unconventional and unpredictable nature of his approach to politics. With his resorts serving as a central meeting point for power brokers, politicians, and hopeful appointees, Mar-a-Lago continues to be the epicenter of Trump’s next political chapter.