Trump vows to protect Musk, floats pre-emptive staff pardons

President Trump said Monday he'd move to protect Elon Musk if Democrats investigate the SpaceX and Tesla CEO after midterm elections. He also suggested the possibility of pre-emptive pardons for staff and others around him if Democrats win the election. Why it matters: Trump is positioning himself for a combative final two years in the White House, as polls increasingly point to the prospect of a significant blue wave. What they're saying: In an interview for the "Pod Force One" podcast published early Monday, host Miranda Devine asked Trump about rumors of Musk being investigated or having assets seized. "It's talk. But if it is talk, we'll have to protect them," Trump said. He went on to say he wouldn't hesitate to pardon staffers if he thought Democrats were pursuing them. Editor's note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated with more information.