President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Elon Musk, who currently serves in an advisory role within the government, may leave his position in the coming months. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized that Musk is welcome to stay in his role "as long as he wants," signaling that the decision rests entirely with the billionaire entrepreneur.

Trump reassured the public that the government’s efficiency initiatives, in which Musk has played a role, would proceed regardless of his future involvement. The president did not elaborate on Musk’s potential reasons for stepping down, nor did he suggest a specific timeline for his departure.

In the same conversation, Trump revealed that he had engaged in talks with major U.S. automakers following the introduction of a 25% tariff on all non-U.S.-made vehicles. However, the president declined to provide details about those discussions. The tariff move is part of a broader trade policy shift aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.

The possibility of Musk’s departure comes amid a period of economic transformation driven by protectionist policies and industry reforms. As one of the most influential tech and business leaders in the U.S., Musk’s role in shaping innovation and efficiency strategies has been widely recognized.

Though Trump did not name a successor or mention contingency plans for Musk’s potential exit, he remained confident in the administration’s ongoing reform agenda. For now, Musk’s advisory role continues, with the president reiterating that he is free to remain involved for as long as he chooses.