Trump May Appoint Tesla CEO Elon Musk To Cabinet If Re-Elected, Signals Possible Elimination Of EV Tax Credit

Former US President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of appointing Tesla CEO Elon Musk to a cabinet or advisory position if he secures victory in the upcoming US Presidential Elections. Trump, who is currently running as a Republican candidate, discussed his views on electric vehicle (EV) tax credits and potential cabinet selections during a recent interview in York, Pennsylvania. Expressing reservations about the existing $7,500 tax credit for EV purchases, Trump voiced skepticism, stating that ‘Tax credits and tax incentives are not generally a very good thing.’ He suggested that if he were to be re-elected, he would review this policy.

Trump also spoke positively about Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who recently endorsed him. When asked if he would consider Musk for an advisory or cabinet role, Trump responded affirmatively: “He’s a very smart guy. I certainly would, if he would do it, I certainly would. He’s a brilliant guy.”

Regarding his stance on electric vehicles, Trump clarified, “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.”

The former president also discussed potential changes to auto industry policies, including measures to discourage vehicle exports from Mexico and prevent Chinese automakers from establishing plants there for the U.S. market. He explained, “If you put tariffs on those cars, they’re going to make it here. It’s very simple. It’s not complicated. If you tell Mexico, ‘look, you’re stealing our car industry,’ which they’re doing now.”

Trump expressed openness to foreign automakers building vehicles in the United States, stating, “We’re going to give incentives, and if China and other countries want to come here and sell the cars, they’re going to build plants here, and they’re going to hire our workers. We will make our own cars. I want to make our own cars.”