Elon Musk's fervent support for Donald Trump in the upcoming U.S. election could extend far beyond incendiary tweets and campaign cash if the former president returns to the White House.

The two formed an agreement in which Musk will lead a special commission on reducing federal spending, which would implement “drastic reforms,” according to the former president. In an August conversation between them, Musk proposed a “government efficiency commission” to ensure taxpayers' money would be well spent.

Trump embraced the idea, praising Musk as “the greatest cutter,” in reference to the Tesla and SpaceX founder's ruthless approach to running his companies.

In the United States, the power to cut government jobs lies with Congress, however, some worry that a second Trump administration could reset the rules, especially now that a conservative-led Supreme Court has the final say over the laws of the land.

Richard Barton, assistant teaching professor of public administration and international affairs, suggests that Trump could decide to “do whatever he wants and let somebody file a lawsuit and bring it to the Supreme Court, who have been pretty favorable to Trump on matters of executive power.” 

Read more in the Agence France Presse article, “Musk to deliver 'drastic' cuts to Trump government.”