Not long after former president Donald Trump floated the possibility that Elon Musk may be part of his cabinet upon return to the White House, the Tesla CEO confirmed he is ready to serve in the administration.
Trump was in an interview with Reuters on Monday about whether he would consider Musk for an advisory or even cabinet position, to which he replied enthusiastically.
“He’s a very smart guy,” Trump told the news agency.
“I certainly would, if he would do it, I certainly would. He’s a brilliant guy.”
Musk responded to the comments, saying he is “ready to serve,” posting an image of himself as the head of the Department for Government Efficiency.
I am willing to serve pic.twitter.com/BJhGbcA2e0
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 20, 2024
Trump also gave his view about electric vehicles, weighing in on the policy of providing tax credits offered to individuals who purchase electric cars, an idea that Trump said he was opposed to.
“Tax credits and tax incentives are not generally a very good thing,” Trump said.
“I’m not making any final decisions on it.”
“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.”
If Trump takes back the White House in November, he could roll back Treasury Department regulations that have allowed automakers to benefit from the $7,500 credit more easily.
During Trump’s last term, he unsuccessfully tried to abolish the credit, while the Biden has since expanded it.
Trump’s remarks came following his hugely successful discussion with Musk on X Spaces, where they touched on themes including the recent assassination attempt, electric vehicles and energy policy, and how to avoid nuclear war.
Conversation with @realDonaldTrump with higher quality audio https://t.co/bj25prt3zG
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 13, 2024
In July, Musk announced that he was formally endorsing Donald Trump’s candidacy, pledging hundreds of millions of dollars from his vast fortune towards his presidential campaign via his political action committee.
READ: Elon Musk Outlines Seven Compelling Reasons He’s Voting Trump
