Days after Elon Musk accepted Donald Trump’s offer to join his cabinet if he wins the 2024 presidential election, Trump discussed the possibility in a recent interview with Shawn Ryan on “The Shawn Ryan Show.” Although Trump expressed enthusiasm about including the Tesla and SpaceX CEO in his administration, he voiced doubts about whether Musk could manage the responsibilities alongside his existing commitments.
“He wants to be involved now. Look, he’s running big businesses and all that, so he can’t really. I don’t think he’d be able to handle the work of the cabinet. I’d put him in the cabinet, absolutely. But I don’t know how he could do that with all the things he’s got going,” Trump said.
The interview, which has yet to air, has already generated buzz due to Trump’s remarks about Musk. Trump acknowledged Musk’s expertise, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), and suggested that while Musk might not serve as a full-time cabinet member, he could still play a crucial advisory role, especially on AI matters. “But he can sort of, as the expression goes, consult with the country and give you some very good ideas, like on AI. Nobody knows more about it than Elon. It’s a big thing,” Trump noted.
Trump also emphasized the strategic importance of AI for the United States, warning that if the country does not prioritize its development, rivals like China likely will. “It’s very important for the country. If we don’t do it, China is going to do it or somebody else. But most likely China,” Trump added.
Praising Musk as a “genius” and “an unusual character,” Trump highlighted the need to value such individuals. “We have a great relationship. He’s great. He is a totally unusual character. He’s great, and he’s smart, and we have to cherish our geniuses. You know, we don’t have too many of them,” Trump said, underscoring the mutual respect between the two.
As Trump campaigns for the presidency on the Republican ticket, he continues to target his rival, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, in his bid for the White House.
