The Trump Musk Bromance Continues

Former U.S. President Donald Trump said he might eliminate the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicles if re-elected. During a campaign event, Trump criticized the efficiency of such tax incentives and suggested they may not be beneficial in the long term. 

He has also indicated a willingness to appoint Tesla CEO Elon Musk to a cabinet or advisory role, praising Musk’s brilliance and potential contribution to his next administration.

Trump’s stance on electric vehicle incentives aligns with his broader skepticism towards certain economic policies and highlights his ongoing interest in adjusting U.S. automotive and tech industry strategies

Following a public endorsement from Tesla CEO Elon Musk and a discussion on X Spaces, former U.S. President Donald Trump stated he would consider appointing Musk to a Cabinet position should he win the 2024 presidential election. 

In an interview with Reuters on August 19, Trump expressed that he would “certainly” entertain the idea of Musk joining his administration in an advisory capacity starting January 2025. The potential roles for Musk could span various executive departments such as Energy, Labor, or Commerce. 

Musk wrote on X, that he is ready to serve, including a not so subtle DOGE reference. 

Source: X

Musk, who did not support Trump in the 2020 election, shifted his stance following an assassination attempt against Trump, openly endorsing him recently. Trump, acknowledging Musk’s support, humorously noted at a rally that he has no choice but to support electric vehicles strongly due to Musk’s endorsement. Reports also emerged suggesting Musk might financially support Trump’s campaign, although Musk clarified that his contributions would be more modest than reported.

Trump, previously banned from X (formerly Twitter) for incitement concerns, returned to the platform for occasional posts after Musk reinstated his account following a public poll. This reinstatement came after Musk’s acquisition of the platform and despite Trump’s continued preference for posting on his platform, Truth Social. With the election approaching, Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris are closely matched in the polls, with a scheduled debate on the horizon.