In a Twitter exchange with Gizmodo, Elon Musk explained why he is engaging with President Trump on issues even when they don't necessarily see eye to eye — and why others should, too.
When asked why Musk was confident Trump would be open to a carbon tax when he considers global warming to be a hoax, Musk said:
You are missing the point. This is something we need to strive for and the more voices of reason that the President hears, the better. Simply attacking him will achieve nothing. Are you aware of a single case where Trump bowed to protests or media attacks? Better that there are open channels of communication. — Elon Musk
Why he spoke up: Tech leaders such as Musk and Uber's Travis Kalanick have taken some heat for participating in administration advisory roles, even sparking a protest outside Uber's headquarters on the day of Trump's inauguration.