Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and Blue Origin, has expressed optimism about Donald Trump's second term as president, citing the president's enthusiasm for reducing regulation. Speaking at The New York Times DealBook Summit on Wednesday, Bezos said, "I'm actually very optimistic this time around. He seems to have a lot of energy around reducing regulation. If I can help him do that, I'm going to help him."

This marks a significant shift in tone from Bezos' previous interactions with Trump. During Trump's 2016 term, the president frequently criticized Bezos and his companies, including Amazon, Blue Origin, and The Washington Post. Bezos defended himself, but it did little to improve his reputation with Trump. However, with his companies having a lot at stake in the coming administration, including the FTC's antitrust investigation into Amazon and Blue Origin's efforts to compete with SpaceX for government contracts, Bezos' newfound optimism may be a strategic move.

Bezos also described Trump as "calmer this time" and "more settled," suggesting that the president may be more open to collaboration. The Amazon founder further stated that he will try to "talk him out of" the idea that the press, which includes The Washington Post, is an enemy of the people. This comment is particularly noteworthy, given Trump's history of criticizing the media.

In addition to his comments on Trump, Bezos also echoed Sam Altman's remarks earlier in the day, saying he doesn't expect Elon Musk to wield his new political power with DOGE against rivals. Bezos attributed his success in life to not being cynical, and rarely being taken advantage of as a result. This statement may be seen as a veiled reference to Musk's growing influence in the tech industry.

Bezos' rare public appearance and comments have sparked interest in the tech industry, with many wondering what this new era of cooperation between Bezos and Trump might mean for the sector. As the founder of two companies with significant stakes in the coming administration, Bezos' optimism may signal a shift in the industry's relationship with the government.

Watch Bezos' conversation with Andrew Ross Sorkin below:

This development is likely to have significant implications for the tech industry, and it will be interesting to see how Bezos' companies navigate the coming administration. With Amazon facing antitrust investigations and Blue Origin competing for government contracts, Bezos' newfound optimism may be a key factor in shaping the industry's future.