Republican presidential candidate and former President Trump stated on Monday (August 19th) that if he wins the November U.S. election, he would consider appointing Tesla CEO Elon Musk to the cabinet or as an advisor.
As the Democratic Party held its national convention in Chicago, Trump embarked on a battleground state tour this week, hoping to boost his momentum and influence in key electoral districts.
After wrapping up a campaign event in York City, Pennsylvania on Monday, Trump told Reuters that he would consider appointing Musk to a key government position.
When asked whether Musk could be considered for a cabinet or advisory role, Trump said: “He is a very smart person. If he is willing, I would certainly consider it. He is a talented individual.”
In the same interview, Trump also expressed a favorable stance towards revoking the $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit. This credit is a crucial policy under the Biden administration aimed at promoting the production and sale of electric vehicles.
During his presidency, Trump attempted to abolish the electric vehicle tax credit, but President Biden expanded the policy in 2022 as part of his efforts to address climate change.
“I will not make any decisions on this at the moment,” Trump said regarding the electric vehicle tax credit. “I am a loyal fan of electric cars, but I also like gasoline cars, as well as hybrid cars and any other potential automobiles.”
Trump added that he would reverse the Biden administration’s regulations, which incentivize automakers to produce more electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to meet stricter carbon emission standards. Due to cost and battery range issues, Trump believes the actual market for electric cars would be “much smaller.”
Trump also stated that he would prevent Chinese automakers from building new factories in Mexico to sell to the American market.
Last week, Trump and Musk engaged in a two-hour conversation on X, during which Musk expressed his willingness to join a government committee to study U.S. national debt issues and how to improve government efficiency. However, he did not mention the possibility of serving in the cabinet.
At that time, Musk told Trump, “I think it would be great to establish a government efficiency commission to research these matters to ensure taxpayer money is well spent.”
“I would be happy to assist in such a committee,” Musk said.
On Monday, Trump further elaborated on his economic policy in his speech in Pennsylvania. He mentioned that his administration would utilize more advanced small modular nuclear reactors and invoke the Defense Production Act to increase production of essential goods.
Trump promised that if he wins the election, he would ensure that the supply chain for essential goods is 100% made in America.
He also stated that he would take action to block Nippon Steel’s acquisition of an American steel company. Union workers are key voters in swing states like Pennsylvania and could potentially sway the election outcome.
“I will stop Japan from buying American steel companies. They should not be allowed to make that purchase,” Trump said.
Most polls indicate that Pennsylvania has become one of the most critical states in the presidential election, with Harris and Trump neck and neck in the race.
Last Saturday, Trump and Harris faced off in Pennsylvania, with Trump campaigning in the northeast and Harris giving speeches during a tour in the western region, underscoring the state’s importance.
On Monday, Trump’s running mate, Senator Vance, also addressed supporters in Philadelphia.