Ken Howery, a reserved tech investor and longtime friend of Elon Musk, is stepping into the spotlight as a key figure in President-elect Donald J. Trump’s administration. Trump has nominated Howery as the U.S. ambassador to Denmark, positioning him at the center of an audacious plan: acquiring Greenland, the world’s largest island.
- Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has repeatedly been declared “not for sale.” However, Trump has been vocal about its strategic importance. “For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity,” Trump stated on Truth Social. He praised Howery, expressing confidence in his ability to represent U.S. interests.
A Silicon Valley Veteran in Diplomacy
Ken Howery, co-founder of PayPal and a member of the famed “PayPal Mafia,” brings a blend of tech-savvy and political ambition to his new role. Though he avoids the limelight, Howery has a reputation for adventure and bold ideas. Known for hosting extravagant events, he’s also an avid traveler and thrill-seeker, having visited 99 countries and participated in global yacht races.
Howery served as the U.S. ambassador to Sweden during Trump’s first term, a position that introduced him to the complexities of international diplomacy. His tenure included efforts to defend Trump’s unconventional policies and visits to Arctic regions critical to NATO’s defense strategy.
A Greenland Gambit
Trump’s ambition to acquire Greenland aligns with Howery’s new diplomatic mission. As ambassador, Howery will navigate a complex geopolitical landscape, including resistance from Denmark and Greenland, which have both dismissed the idea of selling the island. Despite the challenges, Howery’s connections and negotiation skills could be pivotal in advancing the U.S. agenda.
Notably, Howery has strong ties to Elon Musk, who publicly supported the Greenland initiative, tweeting, “Congrats! Help America gain Greenland.” Howery has advised Musk on ventures like Neuralink and the purchase of Twitter, and their friendship has positioned Howery as a trusted intermediary within Musk’s orbit.
Silicon Valley Meets Politics
Howery’s appointment reflects a broader trend of Silicon Valley figures entering Trump’s administration. Many, like Howery, are seasoned dealmakers but face the challenge of translating private-sector experience into effective public service.
Despite his low-profile nature, Howery’s involvement in high-stakes diplomacy could signal a future in politics. Friends suggest he’s considered running for office in his home state of Texas, adding yet another layer of intrigue to his career trajectory.
