A historian and author has warned that the close relationship between Elon Musk and Donald Trump is unlikely to last, citing Trump's inability to share credit for his successes. David Nasaw, a history professor who has written about influential figures and politics, said 'the bromance is not going to last.'
Nasaw argued that Trump's personality makes it difficult for him to coexist with others who seek the spotlight. 'There's room for only one star, one genius in the Trump White House. He is not going to share his victory and center stage with anyone,' Nasaw wrote in the New York Times.
Musk, who endorsed Trump and spent over $119 million on his campaign, has been a constant presence at Mar-a-Lago since the election, weighing in on Senate leadership and bureaucratic reshuffling. However, Nasaw believes Musk's demands, including a role running a new Department of Government Efficiency, are unlikely to be fulfilled.
'Do you really believe he is going to give you that? This is not a man for whom loyalty is a strong suit,' Nasaw wrote, noting Trump's history of parting ways with key staff during his first term. He also suggested that Musk's plan to cut $2 trillion in government spending would face opposition even from Congressional Republicans.
Trump transition team co-chair Howard Lutnick has already indicated that Musk is 'not coming into the government,' though Trump previously floated an inside role for Musk during a September speech. Musk himself has said he would serve 'if the opportunity arises,' adding 'no pay, no title, no recognition is needed.'
