By Tim Stelloh
Elon Musk announced Tuesday that he will step down as Twitter’s CEO once he finds someone “foolish” enough to replace him.
Musk stated in a tweet that he will continue to lead the company’s software and server teams.
Musk took an informal poll on the social media site a few days ago, asking users if he should resign and promising to follow the results.
Musk’s resignation received 57.5% support out of more than 17.5 million votes cast. Approximately 42% were opposed to the change.
Musk, whose $44 billion acquisition of the company was completed in October, stated in court last month that he expected to reduce his time at Twitter and find someone else to run it “over time.”
Musk responded to the poll by tweeting, “No one wants the job of actually keeping Twitter alive. There is no heir.”
Musk made the announcement in the midst of a barrage of criticism directed at his company’s management, which has included mass layoffs, the suspension of journalists, and a policy prohibiting users from posting links to other social media platforms.
Musk, who has described himself as a “free speech absolutist,” apologised for the link policy, saying major changes at the company would require a vote.
Three minutes later, he asked users if he should resign.
