Donald Trump was re-elected as president of the United States in 2024. He defeated Vice President Kamala Harris in a tight and highly polarizing race. But what will Trump bring to the technology industry, particularly quantum computing and associated quantum technologies?
Trump + Quantum
During Donald Trump’s presidency (2017-2021), his administration made significant strides in supporting quantum computing and the broader quantum industry. A key accomplishment was the establishment of the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Act, signed into law in December 2018. This legislation allocated over $1.2 billion to develop quantum technologies, making it one of the largest U.S. government investments in this field. The Act accelerated quantum research and development by fostering collaboration between government, academia, and industry.
The NQI Act created a framework to coordinate quantum research through three main hubs. The hubs include the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). They also include the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). These agencies received funding to establish quantum research centers and support workforce development in quantum science. The DOE played a crucial role. It established five national research centers aimed at advancing quantum computing. These centers also focus on quantum communication and quantum sensing (DOE, 2020).
Additionally, Trump’s administration sought to maintain U.S. leadership in quantum computing on the international stage. They implemented the Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C). This initiative helped build public-private partnerships to drive innovation. It ensured a strong quantum workforce (NIST, 2019). The administration also issued executive orders promoting cyber-security for quantum technologies. These orders aimed to mitigate risks linked to the potential future impact of quantum computing on data encryption.
Trump and The Future of Quantum
Already since the 2024 election result was announced there has been a major surge in the share price of some technology companies such as IonQ, Rigetti and D-Wave. Whether this is directly due to trump or a series of company earings announcement is another matter. But there are some major tailwinds that help the quantum industry.
Elon Musk and Quantum
Musk was one of the biggest proponents of Trump. He is also among the most famous supporters. We can expect more support for science and innovation. Musk has created trillions in value. His alignment with Trump will no doubt steer the new administration. They will likely invest in innovation to support the quantum industry.
Elon Musk’s technology ventures are renowned for pushing the boundaries of AI, space exploration, energy, and transportation. They also extend into brain-machine interfaces. However, he has yet to make a foray into quantum computing.
Musk’s companies—Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and the Boring Company—focus on areas with immediate applications. They concentrate on predictable technological scaling, such as electric vehicles, rockets, brain-computer interfaces, and tunnel construction. Each of these ventures leverages advanced technology. This technology can scale in stages and yield incremental improvements. This approach contrasts with the current unpredictability of quantum computing’s commercial viability.
Musk’s limited involvement in quantum computing likely stems from its high-risk, high-reward nature. Classical computers rely on deterministic processing, which can be optimized over time. Quantum computing operates on principles of quantum mechanics, which introduce significant unpredictability. Many private-sector entities have become cautious. They adopt a research-heavy approach, often requiring close collaboration with academic and government research institutions.
Musk emphasizes rapid, scalable product development. He waits until quantum technology demonstrates clearer applications. These applications could be in industries he’s already invested in, such as autonomous driving, AI, or aerospace. Musk will have an appetite for science and deep-tech projects. We will appreciate the multiple effects of quantum technology, which can be observed across a range of industries.
Suppose Musk were to partner with the Trump administration on quantum technology initiatives. In that case, he might use his platform, X (formerly Twitter). He could also use his influence in the tech and business communities to bolster public awareness and support.
He could advocate for incentives or grants encouraging private companies to explore quantum advancements and invest in quantum research hubs. Musk’s role might also include establishing collaborations that bridge quantum computing with AI. Machine learning is expected to benefit significantly from quantum acceleration.
The Future of US Quantum
Certainly, the future of quantum is looking bright in the US. The incoming president is familiar with investing in quantum. He understands the spin-offs and defense applications of quantum technologies such as QKD and more.
Elon will likely play a key role in the new administration. Thus, there should be at least a focus on innovation. This contrasts with how the Biden administration has previously snubbed Elon. The US will continue to drive the world’s quantum efforts. It has some of the most successful pure-play quantum companies, including public companies such as IonQ. The US is also home to some of the largest technology companies, such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM. These companies have all been developing a quantum offering. Expect a new focus on emerging technologies and deep tech, and, of course, quantum.
