The new chief of the Office of Personnel Management underscores his commitment to President Donald Trump's agenda, emphasizing no personal ties to tech mogul and former ally.
Scott Kupor, the recently sworn-in leader of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), has clarified his stance on his relationship with tech entrepreneur
Elon Musk.
Speaking to reporters, Kupor affirmed that he has never maintained a personal connection with Musk, having only engaged in one phone conversation with him in his lifetime.
This declaration comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions and shifting alliances within the Trump administration, particularly concerning figures from Silicon Valley.Kupor's role at OPM involves overseeing efforts to reduce the federal workforce as part of President
Donald Trump's policy agenda.
He expressed his commitment to faithfully execute this mandate, distancing himself from potential influences that could compromise his loyalty to the president.
'My job is to do the agenda that the president lays out to the best I can,' Kupor emphasized.
Furthermore, he stated his intention to adhere strictly to Trump's directives and avoid actions aligned with any objectives contrary to the president's vision.This clarification assumes significance in light of Musk's previous advocacy for Trump and his substantial financial contributions towards the president's election campaign.
Musk played a pivotal role in the Department of Government Efficiency, advocating for budget cuts and reductions in the federal workforce until his departure in late May. His subsequent criticism of Trump's tax and spending policy further strained their relationship.Kupor's professional background includes a partnership with Silicon Valley venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, which has invested in several companies tied to Musk, including AI startup Xai and SpaceX.
Despite this potential for overlap, Kupor seeks to maintain his focus on the presidential agenda rather than any personal or external influences.