Former President Donald Trump has revealed plans to appoint billionaire Elon Musk to lead a newly proposed "Government Efficiency Commission" if he is re-elected in the 2024 presidential race. The announcement came during a speech Trump delivered at the Economic Club of New York, where he outlined his vision for streamlining the federal government and reducing unnecessary regulations.
The idea for the commission was inspired by Musk’s own suggestions, and Trump seized on it as part of his broader economic agenda. The commission would focus on cutting down bureaucratic waste, eliminating redundant regulations, and improving government performance. According to Trump, the tech mogul has agreed to take on this role “if he has the time” despite his demanding leadership of companies like Tesla and SpaceX.
TRUMP: “At the suggestion of Elon Musk — I will create a Government efficiency Commission tasked with conducting a complete financial and performance audit of the entire federal government and making recommendations for drastic reforms. Elon.. has agreed to head that task force” pic.twitter.com/a48F9RUC1f
— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) September 5, 2024
Trump’s proposal signals a continuation of his deregulatory push from his first term, during which he rolled back numerous Obama-era regulations. This new initiative, however, would grant Musk significant influence over how government agencies operate and could lead to major shifts in policies affecting everything from infrastructure to energy and technology. Trump has described the commission as a necessary measure to confront what he sees as a bloated and inefficient federal system.
Elon Musk’s involvement has sparked interest and some controversy. As one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, Musk’s leadership could bring bold ideas and innovation to the table, but critics worry it may also raise ethical concerns. Musk's companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, are subject to government oversight and regulation, and his direct influence over federal efficiency measures could potentially create conflicts of interest. Some argue that Musk's leadership of such a commission could lead to regulatory changes that benefit his own business interests.
Trump just posted a wholesome video of him and Tulsi Gabbard to his TikTok
It's already taking off quicker than Elon Musk's rockets
Tens of thousands of likes within minutes
The Unity is beating the Uniparty
pic.twitter.com/AX6u3s9LDL— George (@BehizyTweets) August 28, 2024
Despite these concerns, Trump and Musk share a vision of cutting back what they both see as unnecessary government interference in the private sector. Musk, who has openly supported Trump's candidacy in the past, has been an advocate for reducing government control, especially in areas like technology and energy. His appointment to this commission would reflect their shared goal of fostering innovation while slashing bureaucracy.
In his speech, Trump also reiterated plans to lower corporate tax rates, aiming to boost economic growth. He criticized President Joe Biden’s economic policies, claiming they have stifled growth and burdened American businesses with excessive regulations. Trump pointed to the success of his 2017 tax cuts as evidence that deregulation and lower taxes could revive the U.S. economy.
The Government Efficiency Commission, if implemented, would be a centerpiece of Trump’s second-term agenda, focusing on cutting wasteful spending and modernizing federal agencies. The specifics of how the commission would operate, including its authority and reach, have yet to be fully detailed. However, Trump assured supporters that the goal would be to “drain the swamp” and bring a business-minded approach to Washington.
As the 2024 election approaches, Trump’s alignment with Musk is seen as an effort to solidify his appeal among business leaders and innovators. For Trump, the commission represents a broader campaign theme of economic growth, efficiency, and a return to limited government—ideals that resonate deeply with his conservative base. The prospect of Musk leading the charge brings a fresh, though controversial, angle to this vision.
