Elon Musk’s presence in the Oval Office has been consistent during President Donald Trump’s second term. But his first meeting there, five years ago, had a starkly different tone from recent encounters. Here’s an exclusive look at what transpired:
The First Encounter
Before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Musk visited Washington to discuss building a Tesla gigafactory in Mexico with President Trump. The meeting, which included discussions with Jared Kushner and Tim Pataki, took an unexpected turn when Musk made candid remarks about the White House.
A Tense Moment
During the meeting, Musk reportedly made a comparison between the White House and Chinese palaces, much to Trump’s displeasure. Despite claiming ownership of two Teslas, Trump displayed a lack of familiarity with Tesla’s technology, leading to an interesting exchange.
Shared Views
Surprisingly, both Musk and Trump expressed skepticism about the severity of Covid-19, likening it to a flu. This shared sentiment highlighted their unconventional approach to the global crisis.
Evolution of Relations
Despite initial disagreements, Musk later became a significant supporter of Trump’s presidential campaign, contributing a substantial amount. This unexpected alliance underscored the pragmatic nature of their relationship.
Looking Ahead
The unfolding dynamics between Musk and Trump offer a unique perspective on their strategic decisions and interpersonal dynamics. Stay informed with Politico’s West Wing Playbook newsletter for more insights.
