Elon Musk Uses X To Encourage Trump's Candidates, But Doesn't Always Work

Elon Musk has wanted to work on Donald Trump several times but has not always been successful. (photo: x @elonmusk)

JAKARTA Elon Musk, billionaire and owner of social media platform X, is again in the public spotlight for his active role in supporting President-elect Donald Trump's candidate. Through his platform, Musk has pushed for a number of names he considers agents of change to fill important positions in Trump's cabinet.

Unfortunately, despite having a big influence in the business world and social media, Musk's support does not always result in victory for his candidate for choice.

During the period 7 to 20 November, Musk posted more than 70 times regarding Trump's cabinet candidate on X. Some of the names that received special attention from Musk were Tulsi Gabbard, a former Democratic congressman, proposed to be the Head of US Intelligence, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an environmental activist, proposed to lead the top US health agency.

However, Musk's most prominent support for Matt Gaetz, a former congressman who was proposed as Attorney General. Musk posted 37 times about Gaetz and his wife, Ginger, in a positive tone. Unfortunately, Gaetz resigned on November 21 following allegations related to sexual harassment and drug use, which he has denied.

In the process of selecting the Minister of Finance, Musk encouraged Howard Lutnick, a Wall Street executive, to fill the position. Musk publicly called Lutnick a candidate who was able to bring change, while Scott Bessent, another candidate, was considered an "ordinary" option. However, Trump finally chose Bessent.

" Musk's support in X doesn't always bear fruit," said an ally of Trump. "Even though it has broad reach, it doesn't mean he is effective in influencing political decisions."

Musk has poured funds of at least 119 million US dollars (Rp1.8 trillion) to help Trump campaign and is often seen at key events with the elected president, including at Mar-a-Lago and SpaceX launches in Texas. He was also invited to lead a government efficiency panel with businessman Vivek Ramaswamy.

However, Musk's intense presence in Trump's circle sparked complaints from some staff. However, Musk insists that the final decision remains in Trump's hands. "Many decisions were made without my knowledge, and all decisions were the prerogative of the President," Musk wrote on X on November 20.

Currently, Musk has transferred his support to Kash Patel for the position of FBI Director. Patel is known for his vocal attitude in supporting Trump and promises to reform the bureau. Musk has consistently posted support for Patel, including stating 100% agrees with Patel's idea to turn FBI headquarters into Deep State Museum

Despite several failures in supporting his candidate for choice, Musk remains committed to Trump's vision of change and efficiency. A source close to Musk said, "He really focused on the goal of reform and would not give up even though he was rejected several times."

Elon Musk appears ready to face political challenges ahead, while maintaining his role as Trump's important ally in forming a new government which is expected to be more efficient and progressive.