PALM BEACH, Fla. — As early as dawn, cars queue for screening by Secret Service agents outside President-elect Donald Trump’s South Florida estate, Mar-a-Lago, a venue dubbed the “Center of the Universe” by Trump himself. Over recent weeks, high-profile figures like Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Elon Musk have attended various social events at the opulent club.

During a recent gathering, Mike Love from the Beach Boys entertained guests while Trump mingled, often dancing and enjoying the music with his wife, Melania Trump. In a social media post that stirred much interest, Trump claimed Mar-a-Lago was “the Center of the Universe,” mentioning an invite from Bill Gates, though it remains unclear if Gates attended the gathering.

This gathering place is not just a luxurious retreat; it serves as a vital salon for Trump’s administration, where potential staff members and supporters congregate to seek favor. The events often raise eyebrows regarding transparency, given the hidden nature of the meetings and concerns about Trump’s financial benefits from club memberships.

Investor James Fishback, who recently launched an investment fund at the club, described Mar-a-Lago as “the power center” of political influence, reflecting the ongoing blend of high-society culture with the political elite.

Amidst holiday festivities, Trump welcomed notable attendees. For instance, Zuckerberg reportedly dined with Trump the night before Thanksgiving, while a Christmas Eve gala featured Trump dancing to “Y.M.C.A.” as his daughter Ivanka looked on. With plans for another grand New Year's Eve celebration hinted at, Trump expressed excitement over drawings big names to his events.

Daytime activities often involve Trump hitting the golf course with close associates like Sen. Lindsey Graham. As Trump navigates through the crowd, the social atmosphere reflects both a vibrant Florida lifestyle and the undercurrents of political maneuvering.

Musk is often seen at Mar-a-Lago, leading some to jest that he is like an "uncle" to Trump’s family. In his ongoing roles, Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have been given responsibilities aimed at enhancing government efficiency by evaluating federal employee roles and reducing unnecessary programs.

Often, Trump balances casual dinners with club members under the resort's awnings with more formal addresses during black-tie events, where important political figures in his reach congregate. At a recent gala, Trump emphasized the positive direction of his administration, facilitating conversations around pressing issues, including border policies.

Efforts to create a sense of community and support among political allies are palpable, with Trump relaying messages of camaraderie as he interacts with prominent figures attending his events, such as Kellyanne Conway and Charlie Kirk.

The allure of Mar-a-Lago continues to draw tech titans and political dignitaries alike, creating a space where influence can be sought or solidified. Trump noted this distinct shift in sentiment compared to his previous term, proclaiming, “Everybody wants to be my friend” as he hosts gatherings that blend entertainment with political ambitions.

Celebrity sightings also abound, with actor Russell Brand among those reporting on their experiences, highlighting the surreal environment of this political crossroads.

The unique mix of celebrity culture and political gravitas at Mar-a-Lago paints a portrait of a modern power dynamic, where social gatherings continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future political landscape.

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