AUSTIN, Texas — Elon Musk is growing his Texas footprint after he decided to relocate X headquarters to his Hyperloop Plaza in Bastrop County, which will join two of his other companies.

“We've already had The Boring Company and Starlink space in our periphery for the last several years, and we've not felt a negative impact other than the number of cars,” said Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino, Bastrop city manager.

Carrillo-Trevino is excited for the growth Musk’s businesses are expected to bring to the area.

“We're expecting 42% population growth in the next five years without Elon’s announcement,” she said.

As Musk moves his empire to Texas, he’s also become more active in Republican politics this election cycle.

“In Texas, we're used to having very, very wealthy people pushing for their interests and putting millions of dollars behind it,” said Cal Jillson, a professor of political sciences at Southern Methodist University.

In September, Musk gave $1 million to the Texas for Lawsuit Reform PAC. It donates to pro-business conservative candidates in legislative races.

“They've always worked on behalf of keeping business flexible, not driving new taxes or regulations into business. So that's what Elon Musk is particularly interested in,” said Jillson.

Republicans welcome Musk’s increasing interest in Texas politics.

“I think it might attract smaller dollar donors that pay attention to large celebrities but don't quite understand in the political world as much,” said Andy Hogue with Travis County GOP.

There is a hope that Musk’s conservative influence will impact areas like Houston and Austin that trend blue.

“We can actually get a seat on the county commissioners court, which we haven't had since Gerald Doherty. There are things we can do with donations. And so we welcome Elon to get involved with local, local level,” said Hogue.

Even Bastrop officials hope Musk helps them with the growth.

“The city of Bastrop is always, always welcoming new, recreation spaces and donors to do that. And so, you know, from a perspective of the demographic that he's bringing, we know we've got to touch on some quality of life issues, recreation, open space, things for people to do,” said Carrillo-Trevino.

Wherever Musk spends his money, his influence will likely be felt.

“He could put his thumb on the scale of Texas politics literally for decades to come,” said Jillson.