Boris Epshteyn, President Donald Trump's senior personal counsel, has become such a constant presence that he sometimes joins Oval Office conversations via speakerphone without other participants realizing it, according to two people familiar with the routine who spoke to Axios. Trump has even referred to Epshteyn as "like my psychiatrist" for his frequent, upbeat counsel.
Epshteyn's proximity to the president translates into real influence — not merely because he hears sensitive discussions, but because Trump often takes his advice. The adviser's role was on public display Monday night when he appeared in the same camera shot as Trump at Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York.
The adviser's enthusiastic support has drawn criticism from other White House insiders. One adviser told Axios that Epshteyn is "100% hype man and cheering section for POTUS" and that his relentless positivity can be "a bit much."
Public opinion remains divided on the influence of informal presidential gatekeepers. Some observers argue that any unelected figure with such private access raises accountability concerns; others counter that presidents historically rely on trusted confidants for candid advice.
Analysts note that while Epshteyn's influence is immense, it operates largely outside formal channels, making his exact sway difficult to measure — and potentially fragile if political winds shift.