As the November 5 U.S. presidential election approaches, speculation swirls around tech billionaire Elon Musk’s potential role in a Trump administration.
Recent discussions suggest that former President Donald Trump may consider Musk for the head of a newly proposed “Department of Efficiency.”
During a recent campaign rally, Trump proposed Musk lead this unconventional department, aiming to streamline government operations and eliminate bureaucratic red tape. He called Musk “one of the most brilliant minds of our time” and expressed confidence in his ability to innovate in Washington.
Trump’s remarks highlight his populist appeal, positioning Musk—a known disruptor in electric vehicles and space exploration—as an ideal candidate for reform. “Imagine what he could do if we brought that brilliance to Washington,” Trump stated. “You won’t believe how fast we’ll cut waste.”
Musk’s Playful Response
In typical Musk fashion, he retweeted a user’s suggestion to name the department “DOGE” (Department of Government Efficiency), a nod to the cryptocurrency he has endorsed. His tweet, “DOGE to the moon,” quickly went viral, adding to speculation about his government role if Trump wins.
Skepticism Among Analysts
However, analysts are skeptical about Musk’s ability to lead such a vague department. Although Trump has appointed business leaders before, Musk’s unpredictable nature raises concerns about his suitability for public service. Establishing new federal departments usually requires congressional approval, which may be hard to secure from a Democratic-controlled Congress.
Harris Campaign’s Expected Reaction
Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign has yet to respond to Trump’s proposal. However, she is expected to challenge what could be seen as corporatization of government. A Harris spokesperson suggested she will address Trump’s “gimmick proposals” in an upcoming speech, reaffirming her commitment to everyday Americans over billionaire interests.
As the election nears, analysts are closely monitoring how the outcome may influence U.S. domestic and foreign policy. The results will significantly shape the direction of the next administration, whether it leads to Trump’s return to the White House or a Harris presidency.