Tech Elite Push Tech Elite to Elon Musk for Cabinet Positions

# Tech Executives Eyeing Roles in the Trump Administration

Prominent members of Silicon Valley are exploring opportunities to impact the Trump administration by advocating for their peers to fill key cabinet positions. Notably, there's interest from a former Uber executive for the Department of Transportation and an aide to Peter Thiel for the Department of Health and Human Services. Although Elon Musk is not officially part of Trump's transition team, his influence has made tech executives hopeful about gaining an audience with the administration.

Joe Lonsdale, a known associate of Musk, has been assisting with the transition, although he is not seeking a permanent government role. Emil Michael, formerly Uber's Chief Operating Officer, is being considered for the Department of Transportation, owing to recommendations from tech leaders. Michael's previous experience in Washington includes serving as a White House fellow and special assistant at the Department of Defense.

For Health and Human Services, discussions had also floated the name of Jim O'Neill, although the final pick was Robert F. Kennedy Jr. O'Neill's career includes prior service in the Bush administration and work with Thiel, establishing the Thiel Fellowship.

Amidst these discussions, there's a focus on how this administration will shape emerging technologies, prompting regulators from tech circles to push for involvement. Roles in Musk's Department of Government Efficiency are particularly attractive, although demanding in nature, calling for highly committed and skilled individuals.

Furthermore, Trump's promise to establish a Bitcoin and crypto presidential council has also generated interest, with crypto executives eager to participate in the regulatory process. This aligns with tech leaders' interest in new administrative roles that might not require leaving their current commitments.