Sidebar What makes Elon Musk tick?
Feb 27, 2025
Faiz Siddiqui, a Washington Post reporter and author of Hubris Maximus, sheds light on Elon Musk's unique relationship with politics. Topics include Musk's informal role in the Trump administration and his controversial management style. They discuss the potential consequences of his cutbacks on federal functions and the ethical dilemmas posed by private sector influence on public agencies. Siddiqui also reveals how Musk's public persona contrasts with his actual approach to governance, raising questions about accountability and oversight.
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Musk's Cabinet Meeting Appearance
- Elon Musk's presence at the cabinet meeting was unusual, standing over the group.
- The meeting resembled a show, with Musk in darker lighting, looming over officials.
Hierarchy in the Cabinet
- There's a sense of hierarchy, formal or informal, within the cabinet meeting.
- The Commerce Secretary's remark, "When the president says something, say yes," highlights this dynamic.
Musk's Use of Props
- Elon Musk enjoys using props and dressing the part, like his Tesla belt buckle in Texas.
- This aligns with Trump's preference for people who fit specific images.
