Trump: “Elon Musk Isn’t Really Leaving the White House Yet”
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| Elon Musk and Donald Trump discussing political influence at the White House |
In a surprising statement, former President Donald Trump declared that “Elon isn’t really leaving” the White House, despite Musk’s federal advisory contract officially ending. This comment has reignited the debate about the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s influence in U.S. politics and national strategy.
Elon Musk’s Contract with the White House Ends
According to Reuters, Elon Musk’s formal advisory contract with the Biden administration concluded in May 2025. Musk had been involved in advising federal agencies on topics like artificial intelligence, electric vehicle infrastructure, and satellite internet services through Starlink.
Trump’s Take: Musk's Influence Still Intact
Despite the expiration of official ties, Trump told Fox News: “Elon is not really leaving — we still talk, he’s got ideas that matter, and we’ll be working together in the future.” Trump’s remarks suggest that Musk may continue to influence political decisions, especially if Trump regains office in the 2024 election.
Ongoing Influence in Washington
Though Musk no longer holds a contract, his role hasn’t diminished. His company Starlink continues to provide essential satellite services to U.S. military operations. Tesla is still a major player in the push for electric vehicles. Musk also continues to attend policy forums and maintains direct communication with Pentagon officials, according to Politico.
Tech and Politics: A Complex Relationship
Musk’s relationship with Washington blurs the lines between the public and private sectors. His voice on artificial intelligence regulation, defense technology, and free speech through X (formerly Twitter) has made him a major influence, even without an official title.
2024 Elections and the Musk Factor
With the 2024 elections approaching, many speculate Musk could play a role in shaping policy agendas. His libertarian-leaning views align with certain GOP platforms, especially on AI oversight, cryptocurrency, and reducing federal red tape.
International Implications
Musk’s influence isn’t just domestic. Starlink’s role in Ukraine’s communications and Tesla’s dominance in global EV markets mean that any shifts in his U.S. political alignment could have ripple effects across the globe.
Conclusion
Trump’s remark about Musk “not really leaving” the White House reflects a broader reality: in today’s world, unofficial influence can outweigh formal titles. Musk remains a central figure in shaping the future of technology, defense, and policy in America — whether he has a government contract or not.
