Key takeaways:

• Marko Elez resigned after racist social media posts resurfaced.
• Elon Musk announced plans to rehire Elez following support from Vice President JD Vance.
• The situation has sparked widespread debate about social media accountability.

Elon Musk has announced his intention to rehire Marko Elez, a staff member in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who resigned after controversial racist social media posts came to light. Musk's decision follows supportive comments from Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump, who both suggested that Elez deserves a second chance despite his past remarks.

Elez, 25, stepped down on Thursday after the Wall Street Journal reported on unsettling posts from a now-deleted account linked to him, where he had made statements such as, “I was racist before it was cool” and “Normalize Indian hate.” These posts prompted immediate backlash and an inquiry regarding Elez’s access to sensitive taxpayer information as part of his role at DOGE.

Vance voiced his opinion on social media, stating, “I obviously disagree with some of Elez’s posts, but I don’t think stupid social media activity should ruin a kid's life.” He emphasized that it’s crucial to reserve judgment based solely on social media activity, advocating for reinstatement unless there is evidence of ineptitude in his professional capacity. Trump echoed Vance’s sentiments during a press conference, openly supporting the vice president's view.

Minutes after Vance's remarks, Musk conducted a poll on X, asking users if Elez should be brought back. The poll indicated overwhelming support for reinstatement, with around 80% of participants voting "yes." Musk later affirmed, “To err is human, to forgive divine.” However, the White House has yet to officially confirm whether Elez will indeed be rehired.

This incident has ignited significant discourse regarding the vetting of staff appointed by Musk, particularly under his ambitious federal reform agenda. Critics have raised questions about the ethos of appointing young staff technologically capable but potentially lacking in professional decorum. As the controversy unfolds, discussions on the intersection of personal accountability and professional opportunities continue to evolve.

Elez, who previously held roles at SpaceX and X, has not publicly commented on the situation. His presence in such a sensitive governmental role raises concerns among some lawmakers regarding the potential handling of taxpayer information and access to vital government systems.

For more updates, see AP News.