Google boss dismisses Obama job link

 

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By Reuters

Posted on 10 Nov 2008 at 10:30

Google chief executive Eric Schmidt has claimed he would not serve as technology czar in Barack Obama's administration if he was asked.

"I love working at Google and I'm very happy to stay at Google, so the answer is no," Schmidt said in response to a question from CNBC host Jim Cramer in an appearance on his television programme.

Schmidt, who was one of the president-elect's most high-profile supporters, is part of Barack Obama's 17-person economic transition economic advisory board. The group met to discuss how to deal with the ongoing financial crisis.

Schmidt said he detected a sense of urgency in Obama, who he expects to "listen carefully" and act. The meeting was one of "great seriousness," he said.

He also said Obama shares his belief that green technology can help to revitalize the economy. Laid-off autoworkers in Michigan could be put back to work building batteries for use in hybrid vehicles, Schmidt offered.

Google has been active in investing in green technology companies, and Schmidt has expressed a deep personal interest in the area.

When asked about the current state of advertising, Schmidt acknowledged that times were tough. Google is the dominant player in internet search advertising.

"Advertising is one of the first things that get cut, and its almost always a mistake, because you advertise to get revenue."

However, Schmidt said he expects advertising to bounce back quickly.