Donald Trump is considering Elon Musk for his Cabinet if he wins the upcoming US Presidential election. This move would mirror Musk’s past role in Trump’s administration, where he was part of advisory panels until his resignation in 2017.
In 2016, Musk joined two advisory panels under Trump, focusing on economic and environmental policies. However, the US tech billionaire resigned in June 2017 following the US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord.
When Musk Left Trump
“I am departing from presidential councils. Climate change is real. Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world,” Musk wrote on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter before the Tesla CEO acquired it in 2023.
Musk’s initial involvement in Trump’s administration was marked by a desire to influence policy, but his resignation in 2017 underlined the tensions between the tech industry and Trump’s environmental policies. Despite this history, Musk’s recent endorsement signals a renewed alignment with Trump as the 2024 election approaches.
READ MORE: ‘I’m Willing To Serve’: Elon Musk Accepts Donald Trump’s Big Cabinet Role Offer
Am departing presidential councils. Climate change is real. Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world.— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 1, 2017
‘He’s a very smart guy’
During an interview with Reuters, Trump on Monday praised Musk, stating, “He’s a very smart guy. I certainly would, if he would do it. He’s a brilliant guy.” Musk quickly responded on social media, expressing his willingness to serve in a potential role. Their relationship has strengthened, particularly after Musk endorsed Trump last month, commending his “instinctual courage” following an assassination attempt on the former president.
The two held a two-hour discussion on Musk’s platform, X, where they discussed the possibility of a “government efficiency commission” to oversee national debt and spending. Musk’s support comes despite potential conflicts, as Trump indicated he might reverse the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicle purchases—a credit that has benefited Tesla.
Trump’s administration previously sought to repeal this tax credit, which was later expanded by President Biden in 2022. During the interview, Trump reiterated his skepticism about tax incentives, stating, “Tax credits and tax incentives are not generally a very good thing.”
If re-elected, Trump could take steps to reverse Treasury Department rules that have facilitated the EV tax credit, which has been vital for Tesla’s growth. He expressed a preference for a diverse automotive market, stating, “I’m a big fan of electric cars, but I’m a fan of gasoline-propelled cars, and also hybrids and whatever else happens to come along.”
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