Elon Musk may serve as an advisor to Donald Trump if the latter is re-elected as the President of the United States, according to reports from the Wall Street Journal. The two influential figures discussed this possibility during a meeting in March, held at Nelson Peltz’s estate in Palm Beach, Florida. These discussions mark an apparent political alignment between Musk and Trump, putting their past public quarrels on hold.
Insiders quoted by the Wall Street Journal reveal that Musk’s potential advisory role remains undetermined and may never come to fruition. However, conversations between Musk and Trump focused primarily on areas such as border security and economic policies.
This potential alliance showcases significant parallels in how Musk and Trump position themselves publicly. Both individuals frequently use their own social media platforms—X (formerly Twitter) for Musk and Truth Social for Trump—as tools to propagate their views. These platforms have been used to support controversial conspiracy theories, stir up anti-immigrant sentiments, and reinforce their ties with right-wing factions.
The relationship between Musk and Trump has experienced fluctuations. Notably, in 2021, following the Capitol riot, Twitter permanently banned Trump's account—a ban that Musk later reversed after polling X users in 2022. During the same period, Trump launched Truth Social, which he continues to use for direct communication with his supporters.
Despite occasional public spats, such as Musk’s brief endorsement of Republican Ron DeSantis over Trump and reciprocal criticisms, the Tesla CEO appears to have reconciled with Trump—at least for now. Musk's call for a massive Republican victory on X in March indicates a temporary ceasefire and shared political objectives.
- The discussions between Musk and Trump were part of a larger gathering of wealthy and influential individuals at Nelson Peltz’s estate, which underscores the high-level nature of their potential collaboration. The meeting reportedly included friends and associates from various powerful circles.
- While Musk's public endorsement of a 'red wave' during the 2022 midterm elections was a significant indicator of his political leanings, it also illustrated the volatile and sometimes adversarial nature of his relationship with Trump. Musk's backing of DeSantis at one point and subsequent reconciliation with Trump point towards strategic political maneuvering.