US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has announced plans to appoint tech billionaire Elon Musk to his cabinet if elected. Speaking at the New York Economic Club, Trump, who has received Musk’s endorsement, outlined his economic agenda and revealed he would establish a government efficiency commission led by Musk if he wins the November 5 election.
Trump pledged to lower corporate tax rates for domestic manufacturers, create “low-tax” zones on federal lands to stimulate new home construction, and establish a sovereign wealth fund. He stated that Musk had agreed to lead the commission, which aims to eliminate “fraud and improper payments” within six months of its formation.
“I will create a government efficiency commission tasked with conducting a complete financial and performance audit of the entire federal government,” Trump told the audience, including former Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin.
Musk, who expressed interest in the role during an August 19 podcast, said, “I look forward to serving America if the opportunity arises,” emphasizing his willingness to take on the role without compensation, title, or recognition.
Trump also reiterated his plan to cut the corporate tax rate from 21% to 15% for domestic manufacturers, proposed opening federal land for homebuilding to alleviate housing costs, and mentioned banning mortgages for undocumented migrants in California, though he did not provide evidence to support this claim.