Elon isn't dumb. Elon is evolution itself! Evolution of the business/government relationship.
First, the government mostly tried to hide it's business relationships.
Next, it didn't try to hide them, but it didn't parade them around, either.
Now, Musk has become our first overlord to stand next to Trump as much as possible and showcase his relationship.
Give it an election cycle or two, and young CEOs will be gratifying Presidential Candidates on stage. Then another few election cycles before the candidates have to gratify the CEOs on stage.
Evolution, baby!