Numerous individuals worldwide protested against the efforts of Donald Musk and Donald Trump on Saturday to dismantle the US federal government.
The protest organizers called on people to refrain from buying Tesla, selling Tesla stocks, or participating in the “Tesla Takedown” movement.
One of the group’s taglines read, “To hurt Tesla is to stop Musk. Stopping Musk helps save lives and our democracy.”
Over 200 events were scheduled globally on Saturday, starting in Australia and New Zealand in front of Tesla showrooms before spreading to Europe in countries like Finland, Norway, Denmark, Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. Each rally had a unique theme organized locally. In Ireland, it was “destroying the fash,” while in Switzerland, it was “down with the Doge.” Photos were posted on Bluesky by Tesla Takedown from San Jose, California, close to Tesla’s former headquarters, and from Austin, Texas, where the headquarters is currently located.
The world’s wealthiest Musk leads the so-called “Ministry of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), tasked with cutting the US federal budget, which includes laying off thousands of workers. Musk and Tesla did not respond to requests for comment.
Protested at a Tesla dealer in Austin, Texas on March 29, 2025. Photo: Brandon Bell/Getty Images
In San Francisco, around 200 people gathered in front of a Tesla showroom, urging others to disrupt busy streets and medians to oppose self-driving roads.
Many demonstrations included protests with signs and chants. Acts of disruption were seen, including impeding postal trucks, public buses, and fire engines. One group had signs with slogans like “Burn your sw before you burn,” and “doge bags no.” A massive American flag was also displayed upside down.
The Brocklong Tesla showroom had cleared out all cars with security guards inside and San Francisco police officers outside. A group wearing red maga hats and black dog shirts also passed through the crowd without incident.
Protester Myra Levy and friend Karen Heistler expressed their reasons for opposing the Tesla movement.
Protester Myra Levy at the San Francisco Tesla dealer held in San Francisco on Saturday. Photo: Dara Kerr/Guardian
Sales representatives in Berkeley, California, reported that Tesla showrooms were closed every Saturday due to weekly protests. A lively scene included spray-painting a cardboard cyber truck. The manager declined to comment on previous red paint incidents in the showroom.
Planet over Profit organizer Sophie Shepherd clarified that the London rally was not specifically against electric vehicles, but rather against the individuals associated with Tesla.
Marty, an 82-year-old protester, expressed concerns about the current state of the country and its leadership.
Protests occurred across the US, with numerous demonstrations planned across different states. London also saw dozens of demonstrators outside the Tesla showroom.
Organizers emphasized the importance of continued protest and peaceful demonstration against Musk, Trump, and Cruzi.
Organizers condemned violent acts against Tesla showrooms, affirming that they are a non-violent grassroots movement. They denounced vandalism and emphasized the importance of peaceful, lawful protests.
tESLA showrooms around the world are expected to face anti-Eron Musk protests on Saturday, as Musk’s senior roles in the Trump administration have sparked backlash from European consumers, including Tesla owners and potential buyers.
Tesla sales experienced a 44% decline on average last month, as reported by research platform Jato Dynamics. The European market share of Tesla dropped to 9.6% last month, the lowest recorded in February in the past five years.
However, in the UK, the Motor Manufacturers and Traders Association noted a nearly 21% increase in the number of new Tesla vehicles registered in February. The Model 3 and Model Y emerged as the second and third most popular models after the Mini Cooper.
The Guardian has received messages from hundreds of Tesla owners expressing their changing feelings about owning a Tesla. Here are some of their perspectives.
“Our daughter continues to ask us to sell it.”
My wife surprised me with a test drive of the Tesla Model S for my birthday in 2019. I was impressed by its performance and environmental friendliness, so we decided to purchase it.
We have driven around 80,000 miles, including a trip to Southern France from Italy. While the car has been reliable and cost-effective, we are troubled by the political affiliations of Trump and Musk. Our daughter, who is 26 years old, keeps urging us to sell it. The polarization on the Tesla Owner’s Forum is evident, making us feel conflicted.
We are currently grappling with a constant moral dilemma regarding our ownership of the car. Seeing models showcased outside the White House by Trump and Musk made us uneasy. The secondary market has seen a significant drop, and our warranty will expire in 2027, which adds to our uncertainty. Owning a car shouldn’t be this emotionally challenging.
Elon Musk announced on Friday that his social media company, X, sold its artificial intelligence startup, Xa, in a rare financial arrangement within the business empire of the world’s wealthiest man.
The total stock trading valued Xai at $80 billion and X at $30 billion. X’s price fell from the $44 billion it paid to social media companies in 2022, but it was still higher than the $12 billion valuation given by some X investors recently. Xai’s final valuation in the December funding round was about $40 billion.
The two companies are private and already share important resources such as engineers. Xai’s chatbot, Grok, is trained with data posted by X users and is available in X. A banker at X for X informed investors that a portion of the social media company’s revenue came from Xai.
In his post, Musk wrote, “The future of Xai and X are intertwined. Today, we have officially taken a step towards combining data, models, calculation, distribution, and talent. The total company will provide a smarter, more meaningful experience to billions of people, while still remaining true to our core mission of improving knowledge in search of truth.”
The deal highlights Musk’s ability to manipulate different parts of his business empire. He merged the company that had lost value, X, with the company that had gained value, Xai, in a strategic move. Musk previously executed a similar strategy in 2016 when he used Tesla’s stocks to acquire SolarCity.
While Tesla is publicly traded, most of Musk’s other companies, like SpaceX, The Boring Company, and Neuralink, are private and less transparent. Musk often reallocates resources and employees among his businesses, operating them as a single entity.
X’s CEO, Linda Jaccarino, expressed concerns about the future, indicating a downturn in fortunes. X and Xai operate in different orbits, with X being more widely known. Since Musk’s acquisition, X has struggled financially due to controversial decisions and a decline in advertiser confidence.
According to Fidelity, X’s valuation plummeted to $12 billion in December. Some advertisers have returned to X recently, hoping for Musk’s favor, but the company has not yet achieved financial stability.
Xai was founded by Musk in 2023 to compete with OpenAI. Musk’s strategic moves and financial decisions have had a significant impact on X’s performance and revenue generation.
Despite challenges, the company remains resilient and continues to work towards its revenue targets. X’s focus on innovation and growth reflects its commitment to delivering value in the tech industry.
Musk’s vision for Xai and X reflects a strategic alignment of data, technology, and talent. The convergence of these resources aims to revolutionize the user experience and enhance knowledge discovery.
With Musk at the helm, X and Xai are poised to unlock new potentials and drive growth in the tech ecosystem. The integration of their capabilities will redefine the boundaries of innovation and propel the companies to new heights.
As Musk continues to navigate the complexities of business and technology, his visionary leadership will shape the future trajectory of X and Xai. The synergy between these entities promises a transformative journey towards excellence and impact in the digital landscape.
News of the trading deal on Friday was met with enthusiasm within X. Jaccarino’s message to employees underscores the excitement and optimism surrounding the company’s future prospects.
As X and Xai embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation, the resilience and determination of the team will drive them towards success. Musk’s strategic vision and leadership will guide the companies towards a future filled with limitless possibilities and achievements.
Protests are set to take place at Tesla’s showrooms across the US and internationally this Saturday. Organized under the name Tesla Takedown, these demonstrations have been growing in size since Donald Trump’s presidency began. Over 200 Tesla locations worldwide, with almost 50 in California alone, will be the sites of these protests.
The goal of the protestors is to oppose the actions of Tesla CEO Elon Musk and send a message to the Trump administration. They are critical of Musk’s decisions including laying off workers, cutting department budgets, making fascist gestures, and dismantling government agencies.
Vicki Mueller Orvera, one of the organizers of the Bay Area Tesla Takedown protests, emphasized that Musk’s actions are undemocratic. She sees Musk as an unelected billionaire wielding power in destructive ways.
The Tesla Takedown movement is described as a decentralized grassroots initiative protesting Tesla’s operations as long as Musk undermines public services. Local organizers are planning demonstrations independently.
Orvera urges protestors to take action by boycotting Tesla purchases, selling Tesla stocks, and participating in Tesla Takedown protests.
Despite requests for comment, Musk has not responded to the criticism against him. He has clarified his government efficiency work as improving government operations.
As Tesla Takedown momentum grows, Tesla’s financial performance has suffered. Since Trump took office, Tesla shares have plummeted, impacting Musk’s net worth significantly. Some Tesla owners have sold their cars following controversial statements and actions by Musk.
The protest movement has gained attention from both supporters and critics. Jonathan V Last, editor of Bulwark, has highlighted the impact of Tesla Takedown protests on Musk’s net worth and influence.
Protest movement grows
Tesla Takedown protests originated in February and have expanded to various American cities. Social media has played a significant role in mobilizing participants, with suspected attacks on Tesla showrooms being condemned.
Recent developments have led to the involvement of law enforcement in investigating the vandalism. Tesla Takedown organizers emphasize peaceful protests and distance themselves from any violent actions.
Anti-Tesla sentiment and protest Go global
The anti-Tesla sentiment and protests are not limited to the US but have also spread globally. Cities like New York and Chicago have seen regular Tesla Takedown protests with significant online support.
Organizers are ensuring that the protests remain non-violent and focus on sending a clear message against the actions of Tesla and its CEO. They are calling for widespread participation in upcoming protests across various international locations.
During the All Hands meeting at the Company on Thursday, Elon Musk reassured Tesla employees about the automaker’s “bright and exciting” future, encouraging them not to sell their stocks despite the company’s declining valuation.
“There may be challenging times,” the billionaire CEO informed his employees. “But what I want to emphasize is that the future looks incredibly bright and promising, and I am committed to achieving great things that nobody thought possible.”
During the meeting aired on X, Musk urged employees to hold onto their stocks despite a 50% decrease in stock prices. Tesla has faced criticism due to tech executives’ roles in the Trump administration. Following Trump’s reference to Musk as the head of the “Governmental Efficiency Department” (DOGE), the world’s richest person has dismantled the entire federal agency, leading to issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As a response, Tesla owners are considering selling their vehicles, leading to a plummet in the company’s stock price and incidents of destruction of Teslas across the country.
Musk expressed his concerns, stating, “When I read the news, it feels like Armageddon. If you choose not to purchase our products, I understand, but resorting to burning them is unreasonable.”
The day before, Tesla issued a recall for the CyberTruck model due to issues with a part called a can rail, prompting the replacement of the assembly of affected vehicles for free.
Even long-standing financial supporters of the company lament the challenging political environment facing Tesla and the subsequent decline in its performance.
Dan Ives, managing director of Wedbush, described the current situation as a “brand tornado crisis” for Tesla due to the recent events surrounding the company.
Musk’s plea to employees regarding stocks is part of his efforts to stabilize stock prices and boost vehicle sales amid the ongoing challenges. Earlier this month, Musk stood alongside Trump in front of the White House to promote Tesla’s technological capabilities, with Trump expressing interest in purchasing the vehicles.
In conclusion, Musk reiterated his long-standing claims during the meeting, reassuring employees that Tesla vehicles would eventually be able to drive autonomously.
“I urge you to hold onto your stock,” Musk emphasized.
Tesla and Elon Musk are currently facing a “brand tornado crisis moment,” and the CEO of the electric car company is being urged to step down by Donald Trump.
A warning was issued stating that Tesla would be recalling 46,000 cybertrucks in the US on Thursday to address issues with external panels coming loose while driving.
This development comes as protesters announced plans for a major demonstration against EV manufacturers, including Tesla.
Tesla’s stock has seen a significant decline over the past month due to various concerns, including the influence of Musk’s ties to the Trump administration and his involvement in the DOGE (Government Efficiency Sector).
Financial analyst Dan Ives described Doge’s impact on Musk as damaging to his personal reputation and business.
Ives warned investors of a potential crisis facing Tesla and Musk, citing protests at Tesla showrooms and destruction of vehicles.
He emphasized the need for Musk to step back from his role in Doge and formally announce his resignation as Tesla’s CEO to prevent further damage to the company’s reputation.
Additionally, Ives called for a clear roadmap for new vehicle releases and the deployment of self-driving vehicles in June to reassure investors.
Protest groups like Tesla Takedown have organized “Action Day” protests against Tesla and Musk worldwide, condemning Musk’s alleged involvement in illegal activities.
In response, Musk denounced protesters and defended his actions against what he described as unjust attacks on Tesla.
The Tesla recall issued on Thursday addresses issues with the Can Rail panels detaching from vehicles, posing safety risks. Tesla will replace the affected parts for free.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, detached panels can create road hazards and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Tesla has been requested to provide a comment on the issue.
hWelcome to Ello and TechScape. In this week’s edition, Elon Musk faces backlash and challenges, Apple improves Siri, and Meta confronts internal struggles.
Mask was assaulted last week, just like Tesla.
My colleague Nick Robbins – Airy Report:
The past 10 days have been rough for Musk as Tesla’s value plummeted due to various concerns. SpaceX also faced challenges with a rocket explosion, while X experienced a cyberattack. Musk’s involvement in Doge and Tesla’s sales event at the White House added to the turmoil.
To uplift Musk’s fortunes, Tesla showcased its vehicles at the White House, garnering support from President Trump. However, this move also highlighted Musk’s reliance on external influence to mitigate his setbacks.
Protesters outside the Tesla Service Center in New Orleans on March 14th.
Amid Tesla’s struggles, questions arise about Musk’s leadership and the company’s future. Will shareholders take legal action to address the declining stock prices and operational challenges?
Other Elon Musk News
Apple rises to Siri’s incompetence
Apple criticized Siri’s delays at a recent meeting.
Apple faces internal challenges with Siri’s AI capabilities lagging behind competitors, raising concerns among iPhone owners and investors.
The saga of Siri’s development reveals internal struggles and doubts about Apple’s AI features. This setback tarnishes Apple’s reputation for innovation and design excellence.
Meta faces controversy as a former executive exposes internal issues, triggering legal actions and public scrutiny. The book sheds light on Meta’s leadership and decision-making processes.
Wynn-Williams’ book raises questions about Meta’s practices and the truth behind her claims, sparking a debate about the company’s integrity and transparency.
During most of the 17-minute interview, Elon Musk adhered to his agenda. He portrayed himself as a tech-savvy individual on a mission to “eliminate waste and fraud” in government.
Despite the significant backlash he faced, Musk claimed that his cost-cutting initiatives had made substantial progress, as he shared with Fox business commentator Larry Kudrow. He emphasized his goal to prevent America from going bankrupt.
However, Kudlow pushed Musk to consider the future. Would the concept of “government efficiency” (DOGE) still be relevant in a year? Musk acknowledged that his task was not entirely complete. He pointed to federal programs that support retirees, disabled individuals, and other social safety net initiatives as areas where significant spending could be reduced.
While Trump and Republicans have traditionally considered programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare as untouchable, Musk suggested they could become key targets for cuts, sparking backlash from Democrats.
Democrats criticized Musk for proposing cuts to programs that many vulnerable Americans depend on. Musk’s statements led to concerns about the potential loss of essential government services and benefits.
Despite the pushback, Musk received praise from Trump and Republicans for his work, but signs of concern among Republicans were becoming apparent.
In light of Musk’s proposals, Democrats and critics highlighted the potential negative impact on retirees and vulnerable Americans. Musk’s rhetoric around waste and fraud in federal programs drew skepticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
The White House issued a fact check in defense of Musk’s comments, emphasizing his commitment to eliminating waste while protecting American interests. Republicans also clarified that they were not considering cuts to Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid.
As tensions and concerns around Musk’s proposals grew, Democrats wrestled with how to address his influence. Musk’s impact on various government programs and policies sparked a broader debate about the role of billionaires in shaping American politics.
The ongoing debate surrounding Musk’s involvement in government initiatives has raised concerns among Americans from diverse political backgrounds. The future of Musk’s influence and the implications of his proposals remain uncertain.
Federal employees in a lesser-known office dedicated to high-tech and consulting services were working when Elon Musk first tweeted about the agency on the afternoon of February 3rd.
The world's wealthiest man had responded to a tweet from a right-wing activist who mistakenly claimed that the 18th floor within the General Services Agency (GSA) was a left and right cell within the government. Activists accused the 18th floor of creating a programme that would take care of bureaucrats to prepare people's tax returns. This was one of several false claims about the offices circulating on X, the social media platform Musk owns and spends much of his day.
Musk's tweet quickly sparked widespread confusion on the 18th floor. This is not a radical leftist cabal, but is tasked with partnering with government agencies to consult and develop software solutions. Former staff and current GSA employees described the 18th floor as a workforce focused on providing high-tech services and improving efficiency within the bureaucracy. Mask's so-called “government efficiency” (DOGE) is designed to perform accurately.
When Musk insisted on deletion, the partner agency was already in work and was hoping for the office's help on civic technology projects, which are key to updating the business. Will they still get that help? What does “delete” mean? What will happen to the technical tools 18F was building? According to three former workers, staff at the sub-agency were unable to get a definitive answer from the leadership of the new Musk Alliance and were unsure what to tell the other institutions.
The confusion lasts for several weeks. On Saturday, March 1st, staff on the 18th floor received an email around 1am, informing them that everything would be fired and closed “in an explicit direction from the top level of both the administration and the GSA leadership.”
The 18F episode fits a common pattern that appears to be amplifying masks by ingesting misinformation online. It is also a window into the influence of right-wing media and activists on Musk when he attacks and disbands some of the government that he believes does not fit the ideological worldview.
For a week after cutting the 18F, the recently appointed director of GSA's Technology Transformation Services, which oversees the 18F, held a meeting explaining the decision. Thomas Shed, a 28-year-old former Tesla software engineer and Musk's ally who sent the mass layoff email, told staff that the 18th floor had been shut down. Employees' hourly wages were too high And external consultants will be cheaper. Shedd did not respond directly to requests for comment on this article.
“After a thorough review of the 18th floor, the leadership of the GSA has determined that the business unit is not in line with President EOS, following consent from the administration and all OPM guidelines.
The explanation, according to former staff, not only misunderstands how the 18th floor operates and how its cost structure operates, but also ignores the frequent savings of agents by advising private vendors on costs and unnecessary contracts. Instead, former employees and current staff at GSA thought the layoffs were politically motivated.
“The only reason I can see when 18F is chosen to be eliminated in front of other offices is to make Elon Musk happy,” said a GSA employee who spoke anonymously out of fear of retaliation.
Misleading tweets and musk destiny workers dedicated to government efficiency
The 18th floor worked with various government agencies to create popular services, but little known to the public. The group quietly helped create dozens of services each year for various stations, including the IRS direct file free tax return system. Many 18F software projects, including streamlining government weather websites for easy use in the event of natural disasters, have a clear intention to make government services more efficient and reduce taxpayer costs.
When Musk claimed he “deleted” 18F, he was retweeting a February 3 post from right-wing activist Alex Rorsso, producer of conservative media influencer Benny Johnson. Musk of X, and the one courted by Donald Trump's administration. he I'm working As a paid consultant for Musk's Super PAC, he is also a fan. His first post on X profile is a 2023 photo of a mask and laughing, pinned to the top so that others don't push out in the sight.
Lorusso's post allegedly claiming that the 18th floor is “in charge of preparing people's tax returns,” suggesting that it is “a far left government wide computer office.” His claims about 18F were later revised by other X users in the Community Notes. Instead, the office explained that it helped Americans build a service that would allow them to file taxes online for free. Set to extended Nationwide.
Like Musk, Lorusso's posts about X were retweets from another conservative media person. Luke Rosiak, author of the conservative news site The Daily Wire, posted a long thread on January 31st attacking 18F. He framed the technology consulting unit as “a far left agency” and “a contract in which transgender and queer hire each other.” The thread included a profile of former 18F employees using the pronoun for “them” in their BIOS, as well as images of employee crowdfunding campaigns for gender-affirming healthcare. I was also caught up in an article published by Rosiak about the GSA and the 18F in 2023. He suggested that he focused on agency diversity. The Russian chain's first post has received over 13.5 million views and was retweeted by Musk.
According to a former employee, the Russian attack on the 18th floor included a misleading statement. Daily Wirewriters refused to insert facial recognition software into the government's website login.gov for “racial equity,” so 18F claimed 18F's at-risk security for Americans on 18F. The claim blended several different parts of the GSA and misinterpreted security issues with facial recognition, said one former employee, with 18F denounced leadership decisions related to completely different business units.
The GSA faced a legitimate scandal when former Technology Transformation Services Director Dave Zvenyach misrepresented the level of security operated by Login.gov, but Login.gov was an independent entity from the 18th floor and had no direct staffing with the office. According to a former 18F employee, facial recognition software is well known for not being able to recognize non-white faces, and using it as an identity verification tool creates security issues for users, resulting in racial stock testing of facial recognition technology.
“I think it's impossible to imagine people putting their partisans aside while they work for the government,” the former 18F employee said in response to conservative vitriol against the 18F.
In response to requests for comment on the thread's statement, a Daily Wire spokesperson said the Russian report on the 18th floor speaks for itself.
Some former staff members following a massive layoff on the 18th floor Set up your website They attempt to revise the right-wing narrative that their group is partisan within the government, and instead highlight the various projects they have completed. Others warned that their group was an early warning sign of how the Doji and the Trump administration target other agencies based on ideological evidence, not on what they do.
“We lived through the evidence that the topic of this administration was wrong. Lindsay Young, former executive director of 18F, said in a LinkedIn post: “This targeted us.”
In the early hours of Donald Trump’s inauguration, a man wearing a long black cape and a face mask moved his cart on the Oregon sidewalk. He headed to the Tesla showroom in Salem, where his cart appeared to be packed with Molotov cocktails, according to court documents. He took out the handmade explosives one by one, set them on fire, and lobbed them at a glass wall dealer.
By the time Salem police arrived, the showroom windows had shattered, a fire had burned in front of the sidewalk, and a nearby Tesla sedan had flapped, and Vandal’s suspicions had fled. The entire scene was caught up in security footage, according to affidavits from special agents of the Alcohol Bureau, cigarettes, firearms, and explosives (ATF). The showroom’s general manager estimated $500,000 in damages, with seven vehicles struggling and one completely destroyed.
Above: There is a bullet hole left in the Tesla dealer window Bottom: Damaged Tesla Dealer Photo: Salem Police Station
The vandalism incident has been one of dozens of people struck the charging stations of Tesla dealers, cars, and electric car makers nationwide since Trump took office. Many have an explicit message in protest against Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO and senior adviser to the president. Musk was the head of the informal so-called “Doctors of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), making it privileged to overhaul the federal government. It ordered tens of thousands of employees to be fired, cut agency budgets and eliminated the entire department. His hard-pressed approach, which aims to be institutions such as the National Weather Service, the Ministry of Education, and the Social Security Agency, has elicited backlash and criticism nationwide.
Thousands have taken part in peaceful protests at Tesla showrooms in cities and towns across the country. For the 54 days since the inauguration, these protests have grown into a wealth of demonstrations from a handful of people in cities like San Francisco, “Hey, hey, Ho Ho, Elon Musk have to go,” with live bands, Hitler’s outfits as musks, and the presence of a large police force. They are also across the Atlantic, demonstrating in the UK and Germany.
As protests have increased, so has vandalism against Tesla brick and more personal vehicles. The Guardian tracked at least three separate incidents, including Molotov cocktails. This is a coordinated theft of nearly 50 Tesla tires and spray-painted Swastica at Tesla facilities from New York to New Mexico. At nearly 20 Tesla showrooms and charging stations, dozens of owners have been giving birth to cars, poop, and hit with singles of craft cheese.
Like the protests, the dirt and destruction of the Tesla facility have also become international, with sedans and cyber trucks targeting at least five countries. In France, Toulouse authorities reported it A dozen cars were torched At the Tesla showroom earlier this month. Another showroom in the Netherlands It’s been doodled Slogans such as “Fuck Off Fascist” and other slogans that called the mask the Nazis. One destruction just as far away as Tasmania I wrote it “Want to drive a swasticar” across the dealer window?
Musk and Tesla did not reply to requests for comment. Musk, in response to police reports from Tesla Bandarism in Massachusetts Posted on x “AKA vandalism that damages another person’s property is not free speech!” Musk also reposted an interview with Valerie Costa, organizer of a non-violent Tesla Takedown demonstration, accusing her of “committing a crime.”
Earlier this week, Trump said he would label the violence against Tesla’s showrooms as domestic terrorist attacks as he was standing next to Musk in front of the White House. “I’m going to stop that,” Trump said. “Because they’re damaging a great American company.”
Trump and Musk will speak to the press from within Tesla in Washington, D.C., on March 11, 2025, in Washington, DC. Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images
A day later, House Speaker Mike Johnson supported the proposed designation. “Congress will investigate the sources of these attacks and help the DOJ & FBI to ensure that the responsible person is charged to the fullest extent of the law,” Johnson said. Posted on x owned by the social media platform mask.
Mask thanked Johnson with X, adding both a salute and an American flag emoji.
Throws Molotov and fires semi-automatic
He returned in Salem, a month after the suspect first threw a Molotov cocktail at a Tesla dealer. This time he was armed with what police believe to be a semi-automatic rifle.
At about 4am, surveillance footage shows him firing multiple rounds into an empty Tesla showroom, shattering windows again, and hitting a car parked inside the building. Investigators collected bullet fragments, recorded surveillance video and sent remaining Molotov cocktails to the FBI lab in Alabama for fingerprint dust. No one was injured.
ATF agents believe that both cases are linked to Adam Lansky, a Salem resident. Lansky’s lawyers did not reply to requests for comment.
In Loveland, a small town in Colorado, police rushed to Tesla’s showroom in response to a report of a cybertruck fire on January 29th. Under the vehicle they found a consumed Molotov cocktail.
Similar to the Salem case, the suspect in Loveland was returned to the scene, according to court documents. Four days later, the word “Nazi” was spray-painted on the dealer’s sign. Over the next few weeks, the showroom was targeted three more times with Molotov cocktails and graffiti. Lucy Grace Nelson, a resident of the nearby town, has been charged in a series of cases. Her attorney declined to comment on the case.
Police in North Charleston, South Carolina are also investigating vandalism that threw a Molotov cocktail at a Tesla charging station earlier this week, burning both it and itself, forcing staff to cut down on the station’s power. The word “Long Live Ukraine” was spray painted in red on the pavement next to the charging station. Associated Press. The incident was a move that Musk hugged after Trump rewind our support for Ukraine in the war with Russia.
A man in black throwing a Molotov cocktail. Photo: Alcohol Bureau, cigarettes, firearms, explosives (ATF)
Also, careful fires have been set up at Tesla showrooms and charging stations across the United States, where Molotov is not available. Earlier this month, seven Tesla charging stations flare up overnight in Littleton, Massachusetts. According to CBS. Police found the first station thick with dark smoke and flames. The fire was also set up for a rural Tesla facility in New Mexico and an electric vehicle that owns an electric vehicle in Seattle, Washington this week.
The Seattle Fire Department informed the Guardian that it discovered four cyber trucks were engulfed in flames when they arrived at the scene last Sunday around 11pm. Local news station KOMO News I flew a drone over the wreckage The film then took a photo where a single cyber truck was reduced to “more than a crumbed metal chunk.” According to Komo, the other was burning badly, so the windows melted. Seattle police declined to comment as an investigation is ongoing.
Reports of spray-painted Teslas, showrooms, and charging stations have been ramped nationwide. In Salt Lake City, local police say the word Swastika and the word “Nazi” was discovered both at Tesla Service Center and at another charging station. So did the black Swastika Painted on the charging station In Myers, a small mountain town in California. In Ithaca, New York, along with Swasticus, they were “every Hitler” and “Tesla is a fascist.” It is displayed on a supercharger.
At the Tesla facility in Lynwood, Washington, the vandals targeted a cluster of six cybertrucks, but no other vehicles were touched there.
“We observed red spray paint on each cyber truck,” reads Lynwood’s police report obtained by the Guardian. “The doodles wrote “Fuck Elon”
Elon Musk stated on Monday that X was hit by a “massive cyberattack,” causing intermittent service disruptions that affected social media networks throughout the day. The platform, formerly known as Twitter, was unresponsive for many users as posts failed to load.
“We face attacks every day, but this one was well-resourced,” said the platform’s CEO. He posted, “Large, coordinated groups and/or countries are involved.”
Down detector, a website monitoring for outages, showed a spike in thousands of outage reports around 5:45 am on various platforms. Another surge in reported outages occurred around noon, with most issues happening on the company’s mobile app. Tweets that failed to display showed a “something went wrong” message prompting users to try reloading.
The world’s richest man did not provide evidence for his claim. His statements were in response to cryptocurrency influencers suggesting a pause following other resistance to Musk’s ventures. Protests against the “Ministry of Government Efficiency” initiative resulted in vandalism against Musk’s leadership and Tesla dealers in the previous week.
The CEO of SpaceX, who acquired Twitter for $44 billion in 2022, alleged that the previous platform outage was due to a cyberattack. Musk previously claimed a “massive DDOS attack” caused the crash of his live-streamed interview with Donald Trump last year, although company sources later told The Verge there was no attack.
The X outage adds to the challenges facing Musk’s businesses and initiatives. A SpaceX rocket exploded in flight near the Bahamas on Friday, scattering debris. “Tesla Takedown” protests across the nation targeted Tesla dealers, with owners selling vehicles, and the company’s stock prices hitting a low on Monday. Trump also had a heated meeting with Musk and his Cabinet Secretary, hinting at curbing Musk’s influence against government officials who fired many from various agencies.
when Mike Schwede was first sitting on the Tesla Roadster 15 years ago, he felt like he was witnessing the future. In 2016, he became a proud Tesla owner, enjoying the admiration he received from other drivers as he cruised along European highways in his electric vehicle.
However, the shine of owning a Tesla has started to fade recently. For years, the brand was closely associated with Elon Musk and his stance on the climate crisis. Schwede was dismayed when Musk pledged to increase oil and gas production after supporting Donald Trump.
“He was becoming increasingly bizarre,” said Swiss entrepreneur and digital strategist Schwede. The final straw came when Musk made a fascist-style salute during Trump’s inauguration in January. “It was completely repulsive to me,” Schwede stated. “I was no longer enjoying being a Tesla owner.”
Data from the European Association of Automobile Manufacturers revealed that nearly half of new Tesla car sales in Europe had plummeted last month. Analysts attribute this decline to customers turning away from the brand due to Musk’s far-right political affiliations.
The Texas-based automaker sold 9,945 vehicles in Europe in January, a 45% drop from the previous year, according to the association.
The parody “Tesla – Swastical” ad was posted at a London bus stop. Photo: People vs Elon
Existing Tesla owners who are discontented with Musk’s views are beginning to voice their concerns.
Schwede considered selling his car, but with over 60,000 miles already driven, the resale value was minimal. Instead, he decided to donate 10 cents per kilometer driven to various charities, aiming to support LGBTQ+ youth and combat hatred, extremism, and far-right movements. “That didn’t sit well with Elon,” Schwede remarked. “It was my way of seeking personal retribution.”
Some European Tesla owners are pushing back against Musk’s political associations by engaging in small acts of resistance, demonstrating their displeasure with his far-right leanings.
Patrick Schneider from Germany created an “anti-Elon sticker” line for Tesla cars to express his dissatisfaction. The stickers, featuring messages like “Buying this before Elon went crazy,” have gained popularity in response to Musk’s political alliances.
Far-right AFD Alice Weidel is talking online with Elon Musk during her speech at the start of the campaign. Photo: Hannibal Hanschke/EPA
Demand for these stickers has surged, with up to 2,000 being sold daily, not only in German-speaking countries but also internationally. Schneider noted, “Elon Musk inadvertently fueled this for us.”
Musk referred to Mogensen as an “idiot” and used a light pejorative term that escalated quickly.
“SpaceX could have brought them back a few months ago.” The tweet was posted. “I presented this directly to the Biden administration, and they rejected it. The return was delayed for political reasons. Idiot.”
Mogensen, who shuttled between the space station on a SpaceX rocket and capsule, replied 13 minutes later, acknowledging Musk’s earlier praise for his work with SpaceX.
“Like me, you know that Butch and Suni are back with Crew-9, just like me, as planned since September last year.” He mentioned in another tweet about NASA’s plan to bring Willmore and Williams back to Earth alongside two current space station crews. “Even now, you haven’t sent a rescue ship to bring them back. They’ve returned to the Dragon Capsules they’ve been working on with the ISS since September last year.”
Mogensen was the commander of the Space Station from September 2023 to March 2024, continuing to be stationed at his recent orbital post.
Neither the White House nor NASA immediately responded to requests for comment.
Former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, who led the space station in 2013, also reiterated his initial comment on X on February 14th.
“Suni and Butch have never been ‘stuck’ in space,” Hadfield stated. “They are well-prepared and dedicated to their missions, like all professional astronauts. Leading the Space Station Commander is Suni, and they are onboard spacecraft working diligently on behalf of NASA and all their partners. I commend their dedication.”
Spatt’s role as one of Trump’s top political advisers has raised new questions about his tendency to disseminate false and misleading information. Musk has also recently spread several misleading claims regarding fraud and spending within the US government.
Wilmore and Williams were launched on Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft in June 2024 to the International Space Station, intending to spend about a week as part of their test flight.
However, the capsule encountered several issues and was forced to prolong its stay at the space station. Ultimately, NASA decided to return the Starliner to Earth in September.
Elon Musk in Washington on February 13th. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Under the Biden administration, NASA has requested SpaceX to bring Willmore and Williams back to Earth. Their return, initially set for this month, was postponed to late March. NASA cited the need to “finalize” the new SpaceX spacecraft that will transport four new crews to the space station.
This flight, called Crew-10, is scheduled to carry NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nicole Ayers, Russian astronaut Kiril Peskov, and Japanese astronaut Onishi to the space station.
Upon their arrival, Wilmore and Williams will depart the station in another Dragon capsule, alongside NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian astronaut Alexander Golbunov.
Typically, incoming crews overlap with outgoing ones during handover periods, allowing astronauts to exchange information about ongoing experiments, maintenance tasks, and other protocols.
Musk also reiterated on Thursday. He suggested that the space station should be deorbited, proposing a timeline of two years instead of NASA’s plan to deorbit the facility by 2030.
“It has served its purpose. There are limited further utilities,” he stated. “Let’s aim for Mars.”
The recent opening rejected a $97.4 billion bid by a consortium led by billionaire Elon Musk for ChatGpt makers, stating that the startup is not up for sale.
This unsolicited offer is Musk’s latest attempt to thwart a startup co-founded with CEO Sam Altman.
“Openai is not for sale. The board unanimously turned down this latest attempt to disrupt Musk’s competition. Openai emphasized that their mission is to ensure that AGI benefits humanity and mentioned the possibility of a reorganization as a nonprofit organization.”
Altman confirmed in an interview with Axios that Openai is not for sale, and he responded to Musk’s offer with a simple “no thanks,” prompting Musk to call him a “swindler.”
A consortium, including Musk-led AI startup Xai, stated that they would withdraw their bid for Openai’s nonprofit status if plans to become a for-profit organization were removed, as per a court application filed on Wednesday.
Two days ago, the consortium introduced new terms in the proposal through a court filing. The filing exposed that the client’s “published ‘bids’ were not actual bids at all.” The Openai board communicated their position to Musk’s lawyer on Friday.
Other investors in the consortium include Valor Equity Partners, Baron Capital, and Hollywood Power Broker Ari Emanuel.
Altman and Musk have been in conflict for several years.
After Musk’s departure in 2019, Openai established a for-profit division that attracted significant fundraising, leading Musk to claim that the startup was deviating from its original mission and focusing more on profits than public good.
Musk filed a lawsuit against Altman, Openai, and their major supporter Microsoft in August last year on grounds of breach of contract.
In November, Musk requested a preliminary injunction from a US district judge to prevent the transition to a for-profit structure.
Elon Musk has stated that he will retract a $97 billion offer to purchase the nonprofit organization behind Openai if the makers of ChatGpt agree to abandon plans to convert them into for-profit entities.
“If the board of Openai, Inc is willing to uphold its charitable mission and ensure that any “sales” are conducted without conversions, Musk will withdraw his bid,” he stated on Wednesday. “If not, the nonprofit must be compensated based on the amount paid by the prospective buyer for the assets.”
Earlier this week, Musk and a group of investors made their offer, adding a new twist to the ongoing controversy surrounding the artificial intelligence company he co-founded a decade ago.
Openai is currently operated by a nonprofit board dedicated to its original mission of developing AI “safer and more advanced than humans” for the public good. However, as the business grows, it has announced plans to change its corporate structure formally.
Musk, along with his AI startup Xai and a group of investment firms, seeks control over Openai by transforming the nonprofit into a for-profit subsidiary.
Openai CEO Sam Altman swiftly dismissed the unsolicited offers in a social media post, reiterating at AI’s Paris Summit that the company is not for sale. Openai’s board chairman, Bret Taylor, echoed these sentiments at the event on Wednesday.
Musk and Altman were instrumental in launching Openai in 2015, but had disagreements over leadership, leading to Musk stepping down from the board in 2018 only to rejoin in 2024.
During a video call at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Musk criticized Altman once again, comparing Openai to turning the Amazon rainforest into a timber company. Altman countered that Musk’s legal challenges were influenced by his competing startups.
Musk is currently seeking a California federal judge’s intervention to prevent Openai’s commercial conversions, alleging breach of contract and antitrust violations. While the judge has shown doubt about some of Musk’s arguments, no ruling has been issued yet.
Hello, return to TechScape. This week in Tech, Elon Musk and Donald Trump are using brinkmanship as a negotiation tactic. US immigration and customs enforcement are optimizing search engines during arrests and deportations. Spotify is working on improving its image with more human-centered public relations. Thank you for reading.
Zone Flood: Trump’s Executive Order and Musk’s Doji
Donald Trump has been busy issuing executive orders, from ending birthright citizenship to imposing bans on gender transitions. Elon Musk, known as the world’s wealthiest person and in charge of the “Government’s Ministry of Efficiency,” is targeting federal agencies to reduce waste. Both Trump and Musk are using brinkmanship tactics to achieve their goals in negotiations.
Trump recently threatened tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, only to delay them after agreements were reached. Musk, on the other hand, is reshaping government agencies, with USAID likely being folded into the State Department. Their aggressive tactics aim to overwhelm opposition and media coverage.
Musk has a history of using similar tactics in business dealings, such as with X, where he made bold moves and threats but later backtracked. His approach, while effective at times, has faced challenges and scrutiny.
Silicon Valley companies like Musk move fast and disrupt the status quo, aligning with Trump’s approach. Their next targets could be Medicare and Medicaid, signaling potential upheavals in the healthcare sector.
The Logical End of SEO: Deportation Mirage in Google Search Results
SEO tactics are crucial for ranking on Google search results, but even governmental agencies are using these tactics. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently updated old press releases to appear as recent enforcement actions, highlighting the challenges of SEO manipulation.
Reports of immigrant arrests have sparked controversy, with ICE press releases dominating search results. However, closer inspection reveals that many of these actions took place years ago but are presented as recent events, showcasing the power of SEO in shaping perceptions.
Spotify Balances Human Touch and AI Features
Spotify has faced criticism from artists like Björk for its impact on the music industry. However, the company is emphasizing the role of AI in transforming music discovery while also highlighting the human touch behind its recommendations.
Despite the shift towards AI-generated playlists, Spotify is showcasing the human element through stories like that of Sulinna Ong, who brings a personal touch to finding new hits. While AI plays a significant role, Spotify is keen on maintaining a human connection with its users.
By leveraging AI for improved recommendations, Spotify aims to balance technology with human interaction. While facing criticism from some artists, the company is focused on providing a personalized experience for its users.
Elon Musk stirred up a dispute between Openai and its CEO Sam Altman on Monday. The billionaire heads a group of investors that revealed they had put forth a $97.4 billion bid for “all assets” of the artificial intelligence company to Openai’s board of directors.
The startup behind ChatGpt is in the process of transitioning from its original non-commercial status. Openai also operates a for-profit subsidiary, and Musk’s unsolicited offer could complicate the company’s plans. Wall Street Journal first reported the proposed bid.
“If Sam Altman and the current Openai, Inc. board of directors are intending to fully focus on profit, it is crucial that the charity is adequately compensated for what its leadership is taking away from it. It’s about time,” stated Mark Toberov, a lawyer representing investors.
Altman quickly responded to Musk shortly after the news broke, stating, “Thank you, but I’ll buy Twitter for $9.74 billion if necessary.” Musk acquired Twitter for $44 billion in 2022 and rebranded it. Musk’s reply to the post was “Swindler.”
Musk co-founded Openai but left the company in 2019 to start his own AI company called Xai. There have been ongoing disagreements between him and Altman over the company’s direction. He sued Openai over its restructuring plan, dropped the lawsuit, and then reignited the conflict.
The bid is backed by Xai and several investment firms, including those managed by Joe Lonsdale, who co-founded Stealth Government contractor Palantir. Ari Emanuel, CEO of entertainment company Endeavor, also joined the group through his investment fund.
“At X.ai, we adhere to the values that Openai has committed to uphold. Grok has fostered open source. We respect the rights of content creators,” Musk stated. “It’s time for Openai to return to its roots of open-source, safety-focused power. We will ensure that happens.”
Toberoff informed the Wall Street Journal that Musk’s consortium of investors is prepared to match or exceed the value of any other potential bids.
Openai argues that the restructuring is crucial for the company’s sustainability and access to capital. They claim that sticking with the non-profit structure alone will not keep up with the highly competitive world of AI innovation. Openai anticipates the restructuring to be completed by 2026.
Musk is a close associate of Donald Trump, whereas Altman met with the president and attended the inauguration. Trump has identified Openai as part of a group of AI companies collaborating on a $500 million deal named Stargate to invest in cutting-edge technology. Musk’s Xai is not included in this agreement.
Elon Musk surprised many by appearing at an Alternative for Germany (AfD) election campaign event in Halle, eastern Germany, on Saturday. This marked his second public declaration of support for the far-right party in recent weeks.
During the event, Musk, alongside party co-leader Alice Weidel, addressed an audience of 4,500 people via video link. They spoke about the importance of preserving German culture and protecting the German people.
“It’s important to take pride in German culture and values, and not let them be diluted by multiculturalism,” Musk stated.
Just a week prior, Musk sparked controversy at President Donald Trump’s inauguration with a gesture that some interpreted as a Nazi salute.
Reacting to the criticism, Musk addressed the crowd on Saturday, emphasizing, “Children should not be held accountable for the actions of their ancestors, let alone their great-grandparents.”
He added, “There’s too much emphasis on past guilt; it’s time to move forward.”
Musk, known for his concerns about free speech limitations under the German government, has previously criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Expressing his support for the far-right, Musk declared to the audience, “I am enthusiastic about the AfD. I believe you are Germany’s best hope for a prosperous future.”
Weidel thanked Musk, drew parallels between the AfD and the Republican Party’s efforts to “make America great again,” and urged supporters to work towards “making Germany great again.”
Earlier in the month, Musk interviewed Weidel on X, raising concerns about potential election interference.
Despite the chilly conditions, anti-far-right activists gathered in large numbers on Saturday. Around 100,000 people assembled near Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate and up to 20,000 in Cologne, some carrying colorful umbrellas, representing diverse age groups.
Major technology giants criticized their competitors following Donald Trump’s announcement of significant investments in AI the day before.
President Trump revealed Stargate, a $500 billion initiative funded by OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank. The announcement featured leaders from both companies: Sam Altman, Larry Ellison, and Masayoshi Son, with Son as the project chairman. A representative from Abu Dhabi’s state-run AI fund MGX, another major investor, was notably absent.
The partnership aims to establish data centers and computing infrastructure crucial for AI development. While the initial investment amount is substantial, estimates suggest that developing AI will require as much funding.
Notably missing from the event was Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI, who is also the wealthiest person globally. Despite Musk’s close ties to Trump and rumored office in the White House, he dismissed Stargate as a financial sham the following night.
When OpenAI announced on X (Musk’s social network) that they would immediately deploy $100 billion, Musk countered, stating that they lacked the funds and criticizing SoftBank’s funding of less than $10 billion. Musk, with a net worth of about $430 billion, tweets prolifically on a variety of subjects.
President Trump has yet to respond to Musk’s comments, focusing instead on Melania’s anniversary on his social network, Truth Social.
Musk continued his criticism on Twitter, sharing a leaked image of a research tool supposedly used to calculate Stargate’s $500 billion cost. He spent much of Wednesday afternoon attacking the project.
Sam Altman initially praised Musk’s work but later questioned his motives for criticizing SoftBank. Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, responded diplomatically when asked about the situation, emphasizing Microsoft’s plans to invest in Azure.
The tension between Musk and Altman dates back to their history at OpenAI, where Musk eventually parted ways with Altman. The heads of Oracle and SoftBank involved in Stargate have not yet spoken on the matter.
Elon Musk has confessed to cheating in video games in order to achieve high scores. Private online conversations have revealed the billionaire’s extravagant claims of being a top-ranked player in the world. The intense scandal surrounding this incident seems to have subsided.
Musk has often bragged about his gaming rankings, as he mentioned in an interview with podcaster Joe Rogan last year. He reportedly held a position among the top 20 players globally in the highly challenging action role-playing game Diablo IV.
These claims raised eyebrows about how the world’s wealthiest man could dedicate time to compete on a global scale. Juggling responsibilities at companies like Tesla, X, and SpaceX, as well as his involvement in politics with Donald Trump, would have left him with little time for gaming.
The games Musk claimed to have high scores in, Diablo IV and Path of Exile 2, are known for their difficulty. Some players spend countless hours “grinding” through dungeons, battling monsters, and crafting powerful virtual characters.
The revelation of Musk’s unexpected gaming abilities came to light in an article that unveiled a direct message conversation he had with a top Diablo player, Nico Wrex, on X.
During the conversation, Musk admitted to “account boosting,” a form of cheating where players pay to have their characters powered up by others. Musk’s response to questions about leveling up and acquiring gear for Path of Exile 2 and Diablo 4 hinted at these practices.
The Guardian could not independently verify the transcript, but Musk mentioned that he reposted the video to his X account and interacted with NikoWrex on X. NikoWrex’s video discussing Path of Exile 2 in early January indicated Musk’s involvement.
Grimes, a Canadian musician and Musk’s partner, defended him on Twitter, asserting that he witnessed Musk’s gaming prowess firsthand. However, suspicions of cheating arose when Musk’s character in Path of Exile 2 was found to be active in the game while Musk was attending President Trump’s inauguration.
LLast year on Joe Rogan’s podcast, Elon Musk claimed to be one of the best Diablo IV players in the world, and surprisingly the leaderboard backed him up. For those who haven’t enjoyed it, Diablo is one of the most relentlessly time-consuming video games out there. You spend hundreds of hours building your character, cutting through demon armies, and refining your skills and equipment to maximize hellspawn cleansing efficiency. I probably played it for about 5 hours last year, but stopped right away out of fear of wasting my life. Most of the people who play are young, often male, and have plenty of time to spend on the internet and play games. So it’s the same demographic as a lot of mask stans.
It was perfect for hardcore gamers to believe that someone who tweets all day and runs several businesses is also an elite player who has poured hundreds of hours into Diablo. This made him approachable. This was reflected in his preferred image of being the hardest working man alive. But then Elon made the mistake of actually playing the game live on X, and it quickly became clear that something was wrong. Looks like Elon Musk could be. fake gamer.
On January 7, Musk played Path of Exile 2, a very Diablo-esque hack-and-slash game released late last year. His character was very well formed. Suspiciously so. Viewers noted that he had better gear than some professional streamers who play this game all day every day, but he didn’t understand what that statistic meant. It didn’t seem like it was. I haven’t played Path of Exile 2, so I can’t independently evaluate these claims – apparently unlike Musk, I’m willing to admit that I’m no expert on any particular game – but , within hours many discrepancies were revealed that his play and commentary had been precisely laid out. on Reddit and on YouTube video. (He also posted questionable garbage elden ring build Back in 2022, it was dredged for further evidence. ) Apparently Musk forgot that we geeks are known for our attention to detail.
I’m encouraged… Has Mr. Musk ever paid someone to play Diablo IV? Photo: Blizzard Entertainment
What this suggests is that Elon Musk is paying other people (presumably in China) to play these games on his account in order to appear much more successful than he is. It means that it is. This practice is known as boosting and can be very embarrassing.
This infuriated the very people Musk was trying to woo with his gamer tendencies. Mr. Asmongold, a successful streamer and YouTuber himself very popular among right-wing youth, criticized Mr. Musk on the issue. In response, Musk accused Asmongold of being a “not his own man” who was beholden to “bosses” and posted screenshots of their DMs as evidence. This proves that Musk also doesn’t understand how YouTube works. Because in those DMs, the video editors Asmongold chops up clips for him are not his bosses. Interestingly, this feud continues to this day.
Grimes, a musician who has three children with Musk, over the weekend. tweeted In his defense. “For my personal pride, my children’s father stated that he was the first American Druid to wipe out Jill’s Slaughterhouse in Diablo, and finished that season as the best in America. I would like to,” she wrote, clearly of her own free will. . “I observed these things with my own eyes. There are other witnesses who can prove this. That’s all.” Her next tweet was rather heartfelt. “Sigh.”
There’s no shame in being bad at video games. To be honest, by internet standards, I think most people are bad at video games. What’s embarrassing is being bad at video games and pretending you’re not. You can’t claim to be an elite gamer without putting in the effort.
It amazes me that at some point, appropriation of geek authenticity became an issue. When I was a kid, there was absolutely no value in being good at games (most unfortunately, I was a young Mario Kart and GoldenEye 007 genius). When I finished Dark Souls, none of my college friends bought me a beer. But now there is respect and trust in people who are talented gamers. You can make a good living on YouTube, Twitch, or the esports circuit. Apparently, he’s now so respected for being so good at the game that the richest man in the world might believe it’s worth his time to fake it.
It was completed by Musk at the 2019 Electronic Entertainment Expo. Photo: Adam S Davis/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
The real irony here is that Musk is being accused of doing the exact same thing that toxic nerds have been accusing women of for decades. Let’s say you’re playing a first-person shooter game online and you’ve reached near the top of the leaderboard. A grumpy guy in voice chat might accuse you of letting his boyfriend play. Any woman writing about video games in any capacity has to deal with comment threads that claim they don’t actually know anything about video games and are just making things up. Women who play games on Twitch keep getting told that they’re doing it for attention (please, no one wants your attention).
As a teenager, this very gendered condescension made me so angry that I tried to be very good at the games I played. Because I was so happy to see the faces of the boys who told me they don’t play games. That’s when I give them their ass in Halo. I’m too old and don’t have much time for that anymore, but luckily there are now entire TikTok and Twitch accounts dedicated to it. In other words, women who excel at male-dominated games like Call of Duty will weed out the men who give a shit. They are in the lobby. I would be willing to pay a lot of money to see one of these women have a live match with Elon Musk.
Amidst the endless X-stream of bad jokes, rants, and cringe-worthy memes, Musk has tweeted a lot about DEI in gaming. This is a fabricated argument that the left has invaded a sacred gaming space with woke men to destroy it. This rhetoric appeals to the kind of people co-opted by Gamergate years ago, disaffected young people that former Trump strategist Steve Bannon wisely recognized as invaluable to his cause at the time. Designed to be loved by people.
What a delicious irony that it’s apparently Musk himself, not women or minorities, who pretends to be a hardcore gamer in order to manipulate people for his own ends.
Blue Origin’s massive New Glenn rocket successfully launches from Florida on its inaugural space mission. This marks a significant milestone for Jeff Bezos’ space company as it ventures into Earth orbit to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX in the satellite-launching industry.
The 30-story New Glenn features a reusable first stage powered by liquid oxygen and methane. Despite cloudy skies, the rocket lifted off for the second time this week at around 2 a.m. ET (7 a.m. GMT) from the Blue Origin launch pad at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
The first launch attempt was postponed on Monday due to ice accumulation on the propellant lines. However, on Thursday, the company confirmed a smooth launch without any issues.
The company’s live stream captured the enthusiasm of hundreds of employees gathered at Blue Origin’s headquarters in Kent, Washington, and the Cape Canaveral rocket factory in Florida for the momentous launch.
Spectators on Florida’s East Coast cheered and witnessed the launch from parks and campgrounds located miles away from the launch pad.
This mission represents a culmination of a decade-long, multibillion-dollar development effort. It included a successful landing of New Glenn’s first stage booster on a fairing barge in the Atlantic Ocean just 10 minutes after liftoff, along with efforts to propel the second stage towards orbit.
Safety secured within New Glenn’s payload bay is the first prototype of Blue Origin’s Blue Ring spacecraft—a maneuverable spacecraft designed for the Department of Defense and commercial use, set to be sold to a customer.
Achieving the deployment of a spacecraft into its intended orbit on the initial rocket launch is a rare accomplishment in the space industry.
U.S. financial regulators have charged Elon Musk with allegedly threatening other shareholders by not disclosing his ownership of Twitter shares and then acquiring the company’s shares at artificially low prices.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a lawsuit against Musk in federal court in Washington, D.C., accusing him of securities violations. The complaint states that Musk failed to disclose his 5% stake in the company in a timely manner and profited from the stock purchased after the filing deadline for ownership statements. The company ended up paying less than $1,000,000.
Musk purchased Twitter for $44 billion in 2022 and later rebranded the company as X. He acquired a 5% stake in the company before the purchase, which normally would require a public offering. The SEC claims that Musk disclosed his ownership on Twitter 11 days after the reporting deadline.
Musk’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, stated in an email that the SEC’s lawsuit is baseless, claiming that Musk did nothing wrong. This is not the first time Musk has been investigated by the SEC for his involvement with Twitter.
The SEC alleges that Musk delayed disclosing his ownership to the public and spent over $500 million on additional shares, potentially allowing the company to purchase stock at an artificially low price.
Despite Musk disclosing his ownership to the SEC 11 days later, he stated that he had acquired more than 9% of Twitter’s stock. The SEC noted that Twitter’s stock price rose by over 27% on that day.
Reports suggest that Chinese authorities have initiated discussions regarding the potential sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to billionaire Elon Musk if the app cannot avoid a ban. Authorities prefer TikTok to remain under the control of Chinese parent company ByteDance but are exploring other options, including a sale to Musk.
A TikTok spokesperson dismissed the report as “pure fiction” and reiterated the company’s stance of not selling its U.S. operations. TikTok has become one of the largest social networks globally, surpassing other popular platforms in app downloads and user numbers.
Concerns over potential Chinese influence led to U.S. lawmakers passing a bill requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s platform or face a ban. The Supreme Court has also mandated a decision on TikTok in the U.S. by January 19th.
The report suggests that TikTok’s U.S. operations could be sold through a competitive process or a government deal, indicating ByteDance may no longer have sole control over TikTok’s future. Chinese government involvement in ByteDance gives rise to regulatory concerns.
One scenario proposes Musk’s social media platform X taking control of TikTok US jointly, although no final agreement has been reached yet. Details regarding ByteDance’s awareness of discussions and Musk’s involvement remain unclear.
A sale to Musk would grant him greater influence over the U.S. information ecosystem, following his acquisition of Twitter and subsequent rebranding. Concerns over regulatory scrutiny and big tech censorship have also been raised.
If TikTok faces a ban, users may express concerns, as seen in jest from popular influencer Mr.Beast. TikTok has clarified government investment does not impact its global operations outside of China.
There has been no immediate response from Musk, Mr. X, Chinese authorities, or Commerce Ministry to requests for comments.
TCanadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision this week to resign as leader of the Liberal Party brings the impending general election, which will be held amid political turmoil caused by President Donald Trump's “America” policies. The race for leadership has begun against the backdrop of the Deaf general election. First, there is “economic nationalism.” It also gave Tesla CEO Elon Musk an opportunity to insert himself into yet another country's political turmoil.
Since Prime Minister Trudeau's resignation on Monday, Mr. Musk has repeatedly posted about Canadian politics on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, which he acquired for $44 billion in 2022. He celebrates Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's ouster, interacts with Canada's right-wing influencers, and has praised a video by Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poièvre.
Mr. Trump and Mr. Musk have promoted the idea of Canada becoming part of the United States, but all major Canadian party leaders, including Mr. Poilievre, reject this idea. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted on Tuesday that there is “no snowball effect” for President Trump's proposal to become a reality.
“Miss, you're no longer the Governor of Canada, so it doesn't matter what you say,” Musk tweeted late Tuesday night.
Musk's post symbolizes a widening of his attempts to influence global politics over the past year, during which he has allied himself with a number of right-wing populist leaders and sought to influence far-right influence. It has expanded its power and persistently voiced conservative dissatisfaction. After spending more than $200 million to support President Trump's reelection campaign, he positioned himself as a key figure in determining U.S. policy and forcing foreign leaders to take Trump's provocations seriously. Ta.
Outside the United States, most of Mr. Musk's attention has been focused on the United Kingdom, where he has recently reignited the uproar over a child sex abuse scandal while promoting anti-immigration views, calling Prime Minister Keir Starmer a “rapist.” “I'm doing it,” he accused. British”. Mr. Musk is also exerting influence on Germany's upcoming elections. Supports far-right, anti-immigration AfD party In an editorial, he hosted leader Alice Weidel for a livestream interview on his platform.
Musk's meddling in European politics has prompted leaders in Britain, France and Germany to speak out against his election interference and misinformation. Now it looks like it's Canada's turn to deal with the world's richest man.
While Musk remains in the background, Prime Minister Trudeau's Liberal Party is likely to hold a leadership election to replace Musk as prime minister, followed by a general election soon after.
Enliven Poièvre
In a series of posts after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigned, Musk expressed support for Poièvre, whose Conservative Party is widely expected to dominate Canada's general election after three years in Liberal government. There is. Musk's posts to his more than 200 million followers have already drawn comments from major political party leaders, highlighting how important he is as the country faces this year's political turmoil. Indicates whether it has the potential to become an element.
Canada's left-wing NDP leader Jagmeet Singh responded to Musk's tweet, saying, “Elon Musk and other billionaires support Pierre Poièvre because if he wins, they will… Because it will make you richer,” he posted.
In the days of Poilievre Asked about support for Mr. Musk “It would be great if we could convince Mr. Musk to open some factories here in Canada,” he said at a press conference Thursday. He also mentioned Musk's ambitions for space travel.
“My 3-year-old son wants to go to Mars, so I think Mr. Musk is the right person to reach out to him,” Poièvre said. “If I had a chance to meet with Mr. Musk, I would say, 'How can we create an economy that brings hundreds of billions of dollars of investment back to Canada?'”
Mr. Poièvre fits the mold of other conservative politicians who have appealed to Mr. Musk. He was once known as a combative, baby-faced lawmaker nicknamed “Skippy” by other members of Congress, but in recent years he has ditched his glasses and tie and taken on a more populist personality. Poilievre, an Alberta native, has positioned himself as an opponent of “Prime Minister Trudeau's woke authoritarian policies.” used for conspiratorial rhetoric About “Globalist Elite” and Promises to reduce immigration While blaming the Liberal Party for economic inflation.
Many of Poièvre's points revolve around the adoption of virtual currencies, cuts to government funding, and a new punitive government position with the power to withhold government subsidies to universities that don't protect free speech. It's reminiscent of ideas that Musk himself might promote, such as creating a “guardian of the world.” We are committed to protecting freedom of speech on campus. Poilievre also Support ban on trans women It promised to cut funding from women's bathrooms, locker rooms and sports, and cut funding to Canada's national public broadcaster and news organizations.
Musk posted a 2023 clip of Poièvre eating an apple while disdainfully answering questions from a local news editor, calling it a “masterpiece.” The billionaire also praised Poièvre's video talking about spending cuts and inflation. In a third post, Musk tweeted, “Great interview,” sharing Poilievre's remarks. Talking with right-wing commentator Jordan PetersonIn it, the Conservative leader promised “the biggest crackdown on crime in Canadian history.” Mr Poièvre's interview with Mr Peterson drew condemnation from both the Liberal Party and the NDP over the fact that it was sponsored by a US-based Christian anti-abortion group.
According to opinion polls taken before Prime Minister Trudeau resigned, the Conservative Party has great advantages And Canada this year, even if Last month's survey It has been shown that only 37% of Canadians view Poièvre himself favorably.
Despite Musk's support, Poièvre may also face a balancing act over how closely to work with Trump, who remains an unpopular figure in Canada. According to a public opinion poll during the US presidential election, Only 21% of Canadians support it While Trump was re-elected, another poll in November showed that About 19% of Canadians trust Musk's opinion. about their country's politics.
As in the U.S., many of the Canadian political accounts Musk is associated with tend to be respected conservative media influencers, which Musk spreads to his millions of followers. are.
In one post this week, Musk shared misleading claims about Trudeau from far-right media entrepreneur Ezra Levant, which were later corrected by a community note. Levant publishes the website Rebel News, whose contributors include British anti-Muslim extremist Tommy Robinson, Proud Boys founder Gavin McInnes and former top commentators. face goldiewas fired after appearing on a neo-Nazi podcast. Musk also exchanged tweets with Lauren Southern, an early “alt-right” Canadian influencer and former Rebel Media host who gained notoriety by creating anti-immigrant YouTube videos. promote of white supremacist “The Great Successor” conspiracy theory.
Jordan Peterson is another Canadian touchstone for Musk. In addition to sharing Peterson interviews with Poièvre and exchanging the occasional tweet, Musk appeared on Peterson's show last year. In it, the tech mogul claimed that his transgender child “died” after receiving gender-affirming care and was “killed by a wake-up mind virus.” . Vivian Wilson, Musk's transgender daughter, responded that Musk's characterization was wrong and that her father was absent.
Musk also frequently interacts with Canadian marketing professor Gad Saad at X. Gad Saad has developed an online following through his books and podcast appearances attacking what he calls “the parasitic ideas that are destroying the Western world.”
“I read your insightful book on the parasitic wake-mind virus,” Musk tweeted on Third last year. “It gave me nightmares.”
Musk celebrates Prime Minister Trudeau's resignation
While Mr. Musk has expressed support for Mr. Poièvre, he is relishing Mr. Trudeau's fall from grace. On Wednesday, he shared an AI-generated meme of Donald Trump playing a sad violin in the background of Trudeau's resignation speech, and also responded to an old tweet of his own in which he predicted Trudeau would lose power. did.
Musk has expressed opposition to Trudeau multiple times in recent years over issues such as COVID-19 safety restrictions, most notably in 2022 when he shared a meme comparing Trudeau to Hitler. It was. Musk deleted the tweet after being criticized by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Holocaust Museum, but as recently as December he again called for Trudeau's political ouster.
Prime Minister Trudeau had been a target of right-wing media long before the Musk attack, with far-right commentators such as former Fox News host Tucker Carlson portraying him as some kind of socialist dictator and of Canada as a dystopian hellscape. He dedicated a corner to drawing like this.
Within Canada, the reasons for Trudeau's resignation are more complex. Although he maintained a progressive glow internationally, many Canadians across the political spectrum came to find Mr. Trudeau's personality sinister and hypocritical. domestic scandal. Rising cost of living, inflation and fatigue with the minority Liberal government lost significant support from his party. The recent collapse of the cabinet, the failure of last year's by-elections and the threat of a no-confidence vote ended up being a death sentence for his leadership.
A former EU leader in the technology sector alleges that the EU attempted to prevent the owner of Company X from meeting with the co-leader of Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party, branding Elon Musk as “outrageous.” He accused, “You’re lying.”
Thierry Breton, who spearheaded the passing of ambitious legislation to regulate big tech and stepped down as European commissioner in September, claimed that the EU was striving to censor Musk’s scheduled meeting with Alice Weidel. He asserted that it was deceitful to suggest otherwise.
The US billionaire asserted on his social media platforms: “First, the EU tried to hinder my online conversation with President @realDonaldTrump. Now they are trying to block people from hearing my discussion with Alice Weidel, a potential future German chancellor. It appears that these individuals truly detest democracy.”
His tweet referred to a letter Breton sent to Musk prior to a similar discussion with Donald Trump in August. In the letter, Breton reminded Musk of his responsibilities under the Digital Services Act (DSA) not to enable the “amplification of harmful content.”
Following Musk’s announcement of his intention to interview Weidel, whose party holds a 19% approval rating and is anti-immigration, Breton issued a similar caution to Weidel via a social media post. “I reached out to him, but it appears to have been a stunt.” This led to accusations against Musk on Wednesday.
In an interview with the Guardian, Breton stated: “[Musk] is trying to portray the EU as stifling conversations. We are distorting information here.”
When asked if Musk could be lying, Breton responded: “No one attempted to prevent him from speaking to Trump, or to Germany.”
The Frenchman mentioned that he has always had a positive and constructive relationship with Musk in person.
X did not provide any comments. Musk recently criticized Breton as “annoying,” and in August referenced a quote from the satirical film Tropic Thunder, telling the then-commissioner to “take a big step back and literally defecate on himself.”
The dispute is the latest in a series instigated by Musk in recent weeks, including hostile remarks towards British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, provoking outrage across Europe.
Breton called on leaders to denounce the propagation of misinformation and hatred. “Leadership is crucial, especially in these times. Europe can only thrive with strong leadership.”
X is currently under investigation by the European Commission under the DSA, partly initiated by Breton. The company mentioned that it is “collaborating with the regulatory process” and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive platform for all users while safeguarding freedom of expression.
Insiders indicated that the verdict was expected in the fall of 2023, but X needed time to prepare a legal defense. Some anticipated that conclusions would be disclosed soon.
Breton declined to address the investigation but emphasized that the DSA is not intended to silence critics or curb the freedom of speech cherished by all European democracies. He reiterated that such a notion does not exist.
“Freedom of speech is of utmost importance in Europe, vital for democracy across all member states, and non-negotiable for the Court of Justice,” he affirmed.
However, he emphasized that it operates within a legal framework that also prohibits anti-Semitic remarks, racist hate speech, and terrorism apologists, which tech companies must be cautious of.
“These are forbidden by law in physical spaces, on streets, in media, and now in the digital realm,” he stated, pointing out that social media companies, unlike traditional media, wield immense power to disseminate content to audiences and must acknowledge the responsibility that comes with it.
Analysis shows that since 2016, Elon Musk’s electric car company has received approximately £200m in subsidies from the UK government.
Tesla, led by a tech billionaire who is actively engaging with the UK government, has been granted £191m in funds from Westminster, as reported by Tassel, a public contract data analysis company.
The majority of this funding, £188m, came from the Department for Transport (DfT) over the specified period.
These subsidies were primarily related to the Plug-in car subsidy aimed at encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Initially introduced in 2011, this subsidy provided a discount on the purchase price of new plug-in cars, starting at £5,000, until its conclusion in June 2022.
Recent figures from DfT reveal that transportation subsidies peaked at £61.6m in 2020 and have since decreased, with Tesla receiving £49,000 in the first half of the previous year.
Additional grants for Tesla in the UK were provided by entities such as Stirling Council, South Central NHS Trust, and the Scottish Government.
The fact that Tesla has benefited from British government subsidies contrasts with Elon Musk’s statements about reducing government intervention and expenditure.
Musk was appointed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to co-lead the Office of Government Efficiency, with plans to streamline federal operations. He also mentioned plans to streamline X’s workforce after acquiring the company in 2022 and reducing the number of federal agencies in the U.S.
Tesla recently reported a decline in annual deliveries for the first time, as incentives failed to drive demand for its older models, missing quarterly targets several times in 2024.
As the world’s wealthiest individual, Musk has utilized X to criticize politicians such as Keir Starmer regarding recent scandals.
Elon Musk’s acquisition of Company X, previously Twitter, has been deemed a financial disaster, with the company losing nearly 80% of its value since late 2022, as reported by CNN.
However, from a political perspective, Musk’s takeover could be seen as a strategic move, as Company X consistently stirs controversy and influences political discussions. The platform often highlights sensitive issues that align with conservative viewpoints, sparking debates and sometimes inciting unrest.
One example is the circulation of false stories like the rumor about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio consuming pets, which led to alarming reactions and threats during a critical time in the US presidential election.
Company X also amplifies factual but contentious news, sometimes overlooked by traditional media outlets, thanks to Musk’s active engagement. These topics range from immigration and government inefficiencies to social issues and censorship concerns.
Recent posts on Company X shed light on a scandal involving sexual abuse of young girls in northern England during the 1990s and 2000s, prompting Musk to call for accountability from UK authorities, drawing support from prominent figures like Bill Ackman.
Musk’s influence extends beyond X, as he leverages the platform to steer public conversations and intervene in global politics, aligning himself with right-wing parties and critiquing established political figures.
Despite facing criticism and losing users, Company X remains a powerful force in shaping right-wing narratives, contributing to Musk’s growing impact on political discourse worldwide.
Musk’s involvement in controversial issues through X has sparked debates and attracted both followers and detractors, highlighting the platform’s role in shaping public opinion and influencing political agendas.
As Musk continues to use X to drive political conversations and promote his agenda, the platform’s impact on mainstream discourse and public perception remains significant.
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Keir Starmer was looking forward to a family holiday in Madeira in the New Year, but Elon Musk was set to disrupt it. The world’s richest man has been using social media to attack the Prime Minister and suggesting he may donate millions to the British Reform Party.
The controversy surrounding Mr. Musk’s comments has sparked public debate and media attention. What exactly has caused Mr. Musk’s outrage?
grooming gang
In the early hours of New Year’s Eve in London, Musk focused on the issue of “Pakistani grooming gangs,” posting a screenshot that stirred controversy.
Musk’s comments led to heated discussions on social media, with accusations and criticisms flying. His tweets on various controversial topics have garnered significant attention.
Tommy Robinson
Musk’s tweets touched on the imprisonment of Tommy Robinson and raised questions about the UK justice system. His remarks triggered a debate on the treatment of convicts in the country.
Musk’s social media activity has drawn reactions from politicians and officials, with differing opinions on the matters he raised.
British Reform
Musk’s involvement in political issues has put pressure on both the Conservative and Labour parties. His calls for reform in the UK have gained attention and sparked discussions online.
Talks of Musk potentially making donations to the Reform UK party have added fuel to the fire, with speculations swirling about his influence on political dynamics.
Economy
Political figures have reacted to Musk’s criticisms of the British economy, with varying opinions on the impact of his statements.
Musk’s relentless attacks on various issues have stirred controversy and debates, with responses from government officials and leaders.
Elon Musk has caused controversy by advocating for the release of Tommy Robinson and criticizing Keir Starmer for not prosecuting a child rapist in Oldham, Greater Manchester.
Billionaire and ally of Donald Trump, Elon Musk’s message “Free Tommy Robinson!” was prominently displayed on his X feed, showing support for the far-right activist who had been jailed for contempt of court.
In addition to expressing support for Robinson, Musk also made several posts about the Rochdale and Oldham rape gangs, criticizing the Prime Minister and Security Secretary Jess Phillips for their handling of the scandal.
In a post, Musk mentioned, “In the UK, serious crimes like rape require approval from the Crown Prosecution Service for the police to prosecute a suspect. Who was leading the CPS when rape gangs were allowed to exploit young girls without facing justice? Keir Starmer, 2008-2013.”
He also stated that Mr. Phillips claimed it was Oldham City Council, not the central government, calling for an investigation into child exploitation, remarking, “He deserves to be in prison.”
Elsewhere, he suggested: “The real reason she’s refusing to investigate the rape gang is because it would clearly implicate Keir Starmer [Crown Prosecution Service] during that time.”
Musk reposted numerous comments advocating for Robinson’s release, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, and who had been jailed the previous October for spreading false information about Syrian refugees.
The recent involvement of the Tesla founder and X owner in British politics has angered many Labour MPs, prompting calls for the government to cease using X for postings.
The founder of Tesla and X has been openly critical of Mr. Starmer for the Prime Minister’s response to last summer’s British riots. He is reportedly considering donating up to $100m (£80m) to Reform Britain, and two weeks ago, he met with party leader Nigel Farage and treasurer Nick Candy, with whom he was photographed.
Musk’s recent online posts show strong support for the British far-right and follow his pledge to support Germany’s anti-immigration party, Alternative for Germany.
As one member of parliament commented: “[Musk] This time I went too far. Twitter [now X] is becoming a cesspit remarkably quickly, even for uninterested independents.”
Several ministers believe this should be the trigger for the government to distance itself from Musk’s platform, although some warn that doing so could create a diplomatic issue given Musk’s role in the upcoming Trump administration.
Downing Street declined to provide a comment.
A spokesperson for Reform UK did not indicate whether the billionaire’s support for Mr. Robinson, who is at odds within the party, would impact their willingness to accept funding from him.
A spokesperson for Oldham City Council stated: ‘Survivors are at the heart of our efforts to end child sexual exploitation, and their wishes remain our priority, regardless of the outcome of any future investigations. We have made a promise, and we intend to keep it.
“We all acknowledge the grave mistakes of the past where children were overlooked and neglected. By ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard, we can prevent the same failures from happening again.”
The recent gathering between Elon Musk, Nigel Farage, and Reform UK treasurer Nick Candy was not just a meeting of Donald Trump supporters but a meeting of minds.
Their political agenda, developed under President Trump’s MAGA Vision, focuses on immigration, culture wars, and public sector cuts.
Farage emphasized the importance of saving the West, stating, “We only have one chance. Together, we can achieve great things.”
Speculation arose about Musk potentially donating up to $100m to the reforms, despite potential objections from voters.
A ban on wealthy foreigners donating to British political parties received 55% support, with 66% saying Musk should not have any influence on British politics.
Although they share ideological similarities, the public opinion on Musk’s influence remains divided.
Immigration
Musk’s stance on U.S. immigration aligns with the reformers’ goals, emphasizing the need for secure borders and boosting legal immigration to meet labor demands in the tech industry.
Farage and Reform prioritize freezing “non-essential” immigration and deporting illegal immigrants, echoing Musk’s concerns.
Shrinking Government
Musk’s anti-government sentiments stem from regulatory challenges in his industries and support from Trump to slash the U.S. federal budget.
Farage endorses Musk’s efforts in reducing public sector size, aligning with Reform’s vision for the UK.
Political science professor Tim Bale highlights Musk’s appeal to disruptors like Reform, citing their shared values in shaking up the establishment.
Rights and “Woke War”
Musk’s criticisms of woke culture and diversity regulations resonate with Reform’s agenda to combat “transgender ideology” and abolish equality provisions.
Support for Musk’s anti-woke stance aligns with Reform’s cultural war priorities.
Net Zero
Musk’s environmental credentials contrast with Reform’s rollback of eco-friendly policies, advocating for revoking the UK’s net zero target and boosting oil and gas licenses.
While Musk prioritizes environmental concerns, Reform focuses on economic implications of green policies.
Russia
Musk’s shifting views on Ukraine, from supporting to more ambiguous stances, reflect his complex relations with geopolitical issues.
Farage’s past remarks on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and criticisms of NATO align with Musk’s involvement in aiding Ukraine through Starlink.
Both Musk and Farage’s views on Russia highlight their divergent paths in addressing international conflicts.
Elon Musk utilizes his social media platforms and threat to spend millions against Republicans in primaries to advocate for a bipartisan Congressional spending bill to keep the government running, but the bill was diluted. House Republicans rushed to create a new deal after Musk’s initial failure. The revised agreement provided funding for several months while suspending the debt limit at Trump’s request, but it did not pass in the House of Representatives.
Musk, the world’s richest man, played a significant role in the 2024 election, supporting Trump and spreading right-wing rumors. He criticized the spending bill on social media, misrepresenting its contents and impact. Trump and Vice President-elect Vance opposed the bill, but Musk’s public opposition was more prominent.
Musk urged the public to contact legislators to defeat the bill and celebrated its failure as a victory for the people. While he has no formal role in the Trump administration, he wields significant influence over the party and future president through his organization.
The incident exemplifies Musk’s influential role in using social media to attack opponents and influence public opinion. He vowed that no legislation should pass until Trump takes office and pledged to hold dishonest politicians accountable.
Congressional Republicans largely supported Musk, with Senator Rand Paul suggesting him as Speaker of the House. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also expressed openness to the idea. Democrats criticized Musk’s influence and power, with Congressman Pocan creating images depicting Musk controlling Trump.
Musk spread misinformation about the bill, falsely claiming lawmakers would receive a significant pay raise. Fact-checks have disproven these claims, but Musk continued to mislead on social media. Republican Rep. Crenshaw was also caught in rumors about a pay increase, which he denied.
Musk responded to Crenshaw’s claims, emphasizing that Congress should only give raises with a balanced budget. Crenshaw advised Musk to verify sources before amplifying misleading information.
aElon Musk has aligned himself with Donald Trump and various far-right conspiracy theories, causing concern among a group of Tesla owners who are now feeling uneasy about their association with Musk. Many of these owners have publicly expressed their disappointment with Musk and his recent actions.
Seeking to distance themselves from Musk, the owner of Tesla, the world’s richest man, publicly voiced his support for Trump, contributing to his victory in the US presidential election. Consequently, sales of anti-Musk stickers have surged significantly.
Matt Hiller, a Hawaii-based aquarium employee who sells various stickers online, shared that their sales skyrocketed following the election. The stickers, targeting Musk, feature phrases like “Anti-Elon Tesla Club” and “I bought this before Elon went crazy.” These stickers have been in high demand, with hundreds being sold daily.
Hiller, who opted out of buying a Tesla, criticized Musk for his controversial behavior and is now predominantly targeting Tesla owners with his stickers. The demand for these stickers has been on the rise, with slogans like “Space Clown” gaining popularity.
Tesla, once hailed as an environmental hero, has seen its reputation among liberal consumers tarnished by Musk’s rhetoric and actions. Despite these challenges, Tesla remains a dominant player in the electric car market.
Elon Musk and Donald Trump. Photo: Brandon Bell/Reuters
Despite the backlash, it remains unclear how Musk’s actions will impact Tesla’s sales. Concerns linger over Trump’s policies, including his opposition to electric cars and incentives for buyers. Sellers of anti-Musk merchandise have seen a surge in demand, reflecting public discontent with Musk’s recent behavior.
Musk’s involvement in the Trump administration, particularly regarding government efficiency and layoffs, has raised alarm among some Tesla owners, prompting some to reconsider their support for the brand and its founder.
As Tesla navigates these challenges, its future sales trajectory and consumer appeal remain uncertain in the face of evolving market dynamics and public perception of Musk.
Elon Musk has stated that British MPs will be summoned to the US to address issues of censorship and intimidation of American citizens, amidst rising tensions between the world’s wealthiest individual and the Labour Party.
Musk, a close associate of Donald Trump, is scheduled to testify before the House of Representatives’ Science and Technology Select Committee in the coming year. This comes in response to concerns raised by The Guardian regarding the spread of harmful content on social media following the August riots.
The committee’s chairman, Chi Onwura, seeks to understand how Musk balances freedom of expression with combating disinformation. Photo: Richard Gardner/Rex/Shutterstock
Labour MP Chi Onwura, chair of the committee, aims to scrutinize Musk’s approach on promoting freedom of speech while also preventing the dissemination of disinformation. She specifically references the hosting of controversial figures on the social media platform X.
Related: How Elon Musk became Donald Trump’s shadow vice-president
In response, Musk has called for Congress members to convene in the US for discussions. He criticizes the UK’s handling of social media posts and accuses the British Prime Minister and a government minister of labeling X as a problematic platform.
Musk further implies discontent with the UK government, likening the situation to a Stalinist regime and criticizing policies such as changes to farm inheritance tax. Despite tensions, some British officials emphasize the importance of collaboration with Musk for technological and commercial progress.
Secretary of State for Science and Technology Peter Kyle appreciates Musk’s contributions as an innovative figure, despite differing views. He advocates for constructive dialogue and identifies common goals.
Newsletter promotions contentRelated: Trump’s cabinet picks are agents of his contempt, rage and vengeance | Sidney Blumenthal
British MPs face potential summons to the US following Musk’s statements, sparking concerns over threats to American citizens. However, the nature of these threats remains ambiguous, leading to speculations among online followers.
Onwura expresses interest in hearing Musk’s perspective on misinformation and freedom of expression, given his influential role within X. She highlights the importance of gathering evidence for their investigation.
Musk has embraced the moniker “first buddy” in relation to the president-elect and holds significant sway over AI regulations through his company xAI. His actions and statements continue to garner attention and debate.
MPs in a parliamentary inquiry into the UK riots and the proliferation of false and harmful AI content are set to call on Elon Musk to testify about X’s role in spreading disinformation, as reported by The Guardian.
Additionally, senior executives from Meta and TikTok, the companies behind Facebook and Instagram, are expected to be summoned for questioning as part of the Commons Science and Technology Select Committee’s social media inquiry.
The first public hearing is scheduled for the new year, amidst concerns that current online safety laws in Britain are at risk of being outpaced by advancing technology and the politicization of platforms like X.
Images shared on Facebook and X were reportedly used to incite Islamophobic protests following the tragic deaths of three schoolgirls in Southport in August. The inquiry aims to investigate the impact of generative AI and examine Silicon Valley’s business models that facilitate the spread of misleading and potentially harmful content.
The Chairman of the Labour Party Select Committee, Chi Onwura, expressed interest in questioning Musk about his stance on freedom of expression and disinformation. Musk, the owner of X, has been critical of the UK government and was not invited to an international investment summit in September.
Former Labour Secretary Peter Mandelson has called for an end to Musk’s feud with the British government, emphasizing the importance of not overlooking Musk’s influence in the technological and commercial space.
Despite speculation, it remains uncertain whether Musk will testify in the UK, as he is reportedly gearing up for a senior role in President Trump’s White House. Amidst these developments, millions of X users are said to have migrated to a new platform called Bluesky, raising concerns about misinformation and the presence of previously banned users.
The investigation also aims to explore the connection between social media algorithms, generative AI, and the dissemination of false or harmful content. Additionally, the use of AI to complement search engines, such as Google, will be scrutinized in light of recent instances of false and racist claims propagated on online platforms.
In response to the spread of misinformation and incitement after the Southport killings, Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, has highlighted the need for social media companies to address activity that incites violence or promotes false behavior. New rules under the Online Safety Act will require companies to take action to prevent the spread of illegal content and minimize security risks.
SpaceX is gearing up for the sixth test flight of Starship, the world’s most powerful rocket. Elon Musk’s company follows a “fail fast, learn fast” approach to research and development, which resembles the culture of Silicon Valley more than the aerospace industry, with an acceleration in the pace of launches. It seems so.
When is the next flight?
SpaceX states on the website that Starship is scheduled to conduct its sixth test flight on November 19th, with launch slots opening at 4pm Central Time (10pm UK). A live stream of the launch will be available. SpaceX’s X account on the social media platform also owned by Musk, can be viewed here at newscientist.com
It took SpaceX 18 months to complete Starship’s first five test flights, with the fifth happening in mid-October. With the launch of its sixth flight next week, it will be just over a month since the last flight, making it the fastest flight yet.
What will SpaceX attempt with Flight 6?
Flight 6 mirrors Flight 5 in many ways but with some significant differences.
The booster stage will once again try a “chopstick” landing, catching and securing the vehicle as it returns to the launch pad for a soft landing. This methodology aims to eventually enable boosters to be reused multiple times, significantly reducing the cost of launching payloads into orbit.
Starship during high altitude test flight
SpaceX
The upper stage will enter space, complete a partial orbit, re-enter Earth’s atmosphere, and splash-land in the Indian Ocean. In this flight, the upper stage will attempt to reignite one of the Raptor engines in space to gather valuable operational data. Also, new heat shield designs will be tested during atmospheric reentry.
One notable change in this flight is that the landing of the upper stage in the Indian Ocean will be filmed during the day as the launch occurs later in the day. This will provide detailed images as previous landings happened at night, limiting the visibility for engineers compared to daytime landings.
What occurred in previous Starship launches?
During the first test flight on April 20, 2023, three out of the 33 engines in the booster stage failed to ignite. This led to the rocket becoming uncontrollable and self-destructing.
In the second test flight on November 18, 2023, the flight proceeded further, with the booster and upper stage separating as planned. However, the booster stage exploded before reaching the ground, and the upper stage self-destructed before reaching space.
Test Flight 3 on March 14, 2024, was at least partially successful as the upper stage reached space, but it did not return to Earth unscathed.
The subsequent flight on June 6 saw the upper stage reach an altitude of over 200 kilometers and fly at speeds exceeding 27,000 kilometers per hour. Both the booster and upper stage completed a soft landing at sea.
Test Flight 5 was the most ambitious yet, with Starship’s super-heavy booster touching down on the launch pad and being safely caught by “chopsticks” on SpaceX’s launch tower, known as Mechazilla. This innovative landing approach aims to secure and lower the booster for reuse.
PThis is essentially what transpired at Mar-a-Lago on election night, when it became evident that Trump had emerged victorious. The scene was chaotic. Mr. Trump is a man of expansion. He is encircled by the members of a formidable clan and another individual. In his victory speech, the president-elect commended his campaign team, his running mate, and his family, each receiving brief praises.
But “AN Other” was allocated a full four minutes. He is Elon Musk, the wealthiest person in history. President Trump has referred to him as a “super genius,” “a unique individual,” and a “star.” Musk jetted straight from Texas on the Gulf Stream to revel in the adulation of his new master. He also invested hundreds of millions of dollars and a month’s worth of time to be present. Now, his moment has arrived.
Let that sink in. More on this later.
Now, consider what Musk’s counterparts in Silicon Valley were contemplating as they sat, pondering and composing sly congratulatory notes to Donald. And trust me, their disdain was palpable. The atmosphere in the valley was rife with frustration. The tech titans had been strategizing for months on how to curry favor with Trump in case he emerged victorious. Then along came Musk, sidestepping them and making his way into the inner circle of the new administration. It must have been exasperating.
Reflecting on the recent events, it’s evident that the situation has worsened. Trump has appointed Musk and aspiring mogul Vivek Ramaswami to lead his “Government Efficiency Division” (dubbed “Doge” after Musk’s favored cryptocurrency, Dogecoin). The duo is tasked with a concerted effort to streamline regulations, bureaucracy, and spending across the federal government. “Together, these two outstanding Americans will lay the groundwork for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, cut back on excessive regulations, eliminate wasteful spending, and restructure our federal agencies,” proclaimed their new chief.
Perhaps he will benefit from Musk’s assertion that he could slash at least $2 trillion from the $6.8 trillion government budget and Ramaswamy’s pledge to abolish the FBI, the Department of Education, and the nuclear regulatory agency during his unsuccessful bid for the Republican nomination. It appears he was impressed by their proposals.
While this new entity is labeled a “department,” it does not function as a typical government agency. If it did, Mr. Musk would face a slew of conflicts of interest that could pose legal challenges if he starts curtailing regulators with whom he currently clashes. These include the Federal Aviation Administration, National Labor Relations Board, Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Communications Commission, and Federal Trade Commission. Moreover, his various companies secured $3 billion in government contracts from 17 federal agencies last year. However, by operating “outside” the system, he would have more leeway to make cuts as he sees fit.
In 2018, author Michael Lewis released The Fifth Risk, a notable book exploring the consequences of President Trump’s political appointments during his initial term, particularly related to three government agencies: the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce. According to Lewis, the book was born out of his curiosity about the lesser-known branches of government and their true nature, which he discovered mainly revolved around safeguarding people and societal safety.
If Mr. Musk’s track record is any indication, such safety concerns are unlikely to be assuaged. Following a court order in Delaware to proceed with the Twitter acquisition, he promptly laid off 6,500 employees, around 80% of his workforce by his own estimation. Among those terminated were individuals tasked with moderating content on the platform to maintain a certain level of “safety.” Their departure led to an open platform that attracted anti-wokeists, white supremacists, misogynists, conspiracy theorists, and other denizens of an alternative reality. Additionally, he tweaked the platform’s algorithms to prioritize his own posts for its 200 million users, effectively turning it into a broadcasting platform for airing political views and preferences.
By backing Trump, Musk appears to be employing an all-in strategy, reminiscent of his approach years ago when facing challenges in Tesla Model 3 production and claimed to have slept at the factory for weeks. He relocated to Pennsylvania for the final campaign month, actively engaging with supporters and enhancing the campaign’s visibility, particularly in rural areas.
In essence, he has positioned himself as indispensable to Trump, presenting a potential issue for his future. Narcissists are averse to being indebted to anyone, regardless of their assistance. Thomas Cromwell’s integral role in Henry VIII’s court in the 1530s, as depicted in Wolf Hall: Mirror and Light, illustrates that aligning with power may not always bode well. History may not replicate itself, but it might echo this time, as attributed to Mark Twain.
what i was reading
the narrow path from despair Diane Coyle’s Beautiful and concise review of Sam Friedman’s book Enlightenment Economics Failed states: why nothing works and how to fix it.
Was it the week that X died? The platform, previously seen as an ideal marketplace for information exchange, has suffered its biggest breach to date.
Bluesky, the latest competitor to X, has amassed 16 million users. 1 million in 24 hours last week. Hundreds of thousands of people have quit Twitter since Donald Trump won the election on November 6th.
The impetus was Elon Musk, owner of Company X and the world's richest man, to transform the social media site and use it as a megaphone to push Trump into the White House.
The incoming US president said Musk will become head of the new Department of Government Efficiency. The acronym Doge, a play on the dog internet meme and the virtual currency Dogecoin, began as a joke by Dogecoin's creators and skyrocketed in value after Mr. Musk. In 2021, he named it “The People's Code.”
Although Musk now sits at the center of the U.S. government, his actions do not require Senate approval and he can continue to work in the private sector. He is allowed to keep X and its 204 million followers, as well as head electric car company Tesla and rocket company SpaceX. For the first time in history, big tech billionaires are directly shaping democracy, not just indirectly through the media.
“I don't know of any precedent for this approach,” said Rob Engdahl, president of technology analyst firm Engdahl, who has worked with companies such as Microsoft, Sony, and Dell.
Bluesky celebrates reaching 16 million users. Photo: Tamamario/Getty Images
As recently as 2022, Mr. Musk tweeted “For Twitter to be worthy of the public's trust, it must be politically neutral. That effectively means upsetting the far right and far left equally,” he tweeted. that “Mr. Trump will be 82 years old at the end of his term, far too old to be the CEO of anything, let alone the United States.”
A few months later, when Mr. Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion, he fired content moderators and charged for account verification. This meant that people could buy influence. Twitter rebranded to X, shed millions of users and reinstated Trump's account, which had been suspended after the January 2021 White House riot.
The proliferation of alt-right criticism, hate speech, and bots on X, as well as Mr. Musk's own clash with the British government during the August riots, has increased anxiety among X users. of guardian and observer announced last week that it could no longer maintain a presence on the site and would no longer post. Author Stephen King left, saying it had become “too harmful.” Oscar winners Barbra Streisand and Jamie Lee Curtis left the stage.
“X has effectively become Truth Social Premium,” said Mark Carrigan, author of “X.” academic social mediareferring to President Trump's far-right social media platforms. And the buzz in the tech world is that President Trump's “Truth Social” could be folded into “X.”
If this happens, whose interests will take priority? Will Mr. Musk suppress or encourage criticism of the authoritarian governments he does business with? Who is the puppet or paymaster in Donald and Elon's media show?
“If that happens, a political super app masquerading as social media could become the ultimate amplification machine for President Trump's ideas,” said James Kirkham of Iconic, who advises brands like Uber and EA Sports on digital strategy. It will happen,” he says. “Forget about Facebook and Fox News. The real heart of the Republican digital strategy may be X.”
“I'm hopeful that X and Truth Social will merge,” Engdahl said. “But given how overvalued Truth Social is right now, this could be one of those efforts between Musk and Trump.”
The bromance between the world's two biggest egos is mutually beneficial, as long as the two transactional, power-hungry, impulsive people get along. President Trump is hawkish on China, one of Tesla's most profitable markets. Mr. Trump essentially campaigned against electric vehicle manufacturing. Trump is a protectionist. Mr. Musk opposes tariffs. When it comes to climate change, they are against it.
Jonathan Monten, professor of political science at UCL, is skeptical about the sustainability of the relationship. “What Mr. Musk used against Mr. Trump was private money, both to provide a platform to, or to use, a more favorable pro-Trump agenda.” .
“It's unclear what continuing purpose or use Mr. Musk actually has. Yes, this is some kind of celebrity story, but that's the Trump brand. I've got one story, and tomorrow I'll tell another celebrity's story.'' The early 2010s connected and informed activists, artists, lawyers, academics, policymakers, journalists, and experts of all kinds. Share, exchange ideas and track events in real time.
Elon Musk speaks next to Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on October 5th. Photo: Carlos Barria/Reuters
While it's easy to paint Mr. Musk as a bogeyman, some argue that it was the emergence of TikTok and algorithmic timelines that fundamentally disrupted Twitter. As social media optimizes for scale and profit at the expense of user experience, algorithms will prioritize the “best” content – content that screams loudest or is most specifically tailored to users. It has become. Curated accounts and “latest” content to follow have been pushed to the side.
“I think Mr. Musk has done some harmful things, and I think part of that is the logic of evolving social media platforms,” Carrigan said. “The impact of the ad-based model encourages certain ways of organizing platforms, with negative consequences.”
Bluesky, which was the most popular app in the app store on Friday, has become an option for X refugees, but its 16 million users pale in comparison to Meta's Threads. reported With 275 million monthly active users, X Approximately 317 million..
Defender of “fediverse” is a single account for any social media network, just as a Gmail account allows you to send email to any email address or call users on other networks from your mobile phone number. argues that there must be.
Platforms have power when it comes to blocking social networks so users can't leave. Instead, new social networks, including Bluesky, are built on “ecosystems” that enable interconnection.
No one knows what will happen to X, with predictions ranging from collapse to turning into an anti-Trump platform if Musk and the president get into a spat, or even becoming a training ground for Musk's xAI venture. be. AI could engulf social media, with xAI valued at $40 billion, roughly the price Musk paid for Twitter.
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswami are “high-IQ small-government revolutionaries” who are calling on Americans willing to work 80+ hours a week to join their new Ministry of Government Efficiency for no pay.
In a recent X post, which also served as an announcement of his appointment and a playful jab at Mr. Musk, the newly appointed president’s account stated: We are seeking ultra-high IQ small-government revolutionaries who are ready to work over 80 hours a week to bring costs down to earth.”
The department, not associated with the federal government, bears a resemblance to the popular Shiba Inu meme.
“If this sounds like you, please DM this account with your resume. Elon & Vivek will evaluate the top 1% of applicants,” the statement added.
Musk reiterated the call in another post, stating: “Yes, this may be a mundane job. You will make plenty of adversaries and receive no compensation.”
“How delightful!” Musk, the wealthiest person in the world, wrote with a laughing emoji. He pledged to reduce federal bureaucracy by a third and decrease U.S. government spending by $2 trillion, but acknowledged that the process “will inevitably involve temporary challenges.”
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump announced the appointment of Musk and Ramaswamy as president, emphasizing that they will lead efforts to streamline government bureaucracy, reduce excessive regulation, eliminate wasteful spending, and overhaul federal agencies. This is crucial to the “Save America” movement.
President Trump described the newly formed department as a “modern-day ‘Manhattan Project,'” likening it to the U.S.-led research program during World War II aimed at developing a nuclear bomb, which he noted came at a human cost. Estimation [Japan’s population in 1945 was 214,000].
Since the first attempt on Trump’s life in July, Musk has emerged as one of the president’s most devoted supporters, at one point dubbing himself a “Dark Maga” during the campaign. He contributed $120 million to the president-elect’s campaign, hosted rallies in Pennsylvania, and vigorously promoted Trump’s message on X.
Following Trump’s re-election, Musk shared an edited photo of himself holding a sink in the Oval Office, with text that read “Please sink.”
This image recalls a promotional campaign from October 2022, shortly after Musk sealed a $44 billion deal to acquire X (formerly Twitter). Musk entered the headquarters carrying Sink. According to new estimates from Fidelity, X’s value has dropped nearly 80% since Musk’s acquisition two years ago.
President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswami will head the newly established Department of Government Efficiency.
Despite the name, this department is not a government agency. Trump stated that Musk and Ramaswamy will operate externally, offering “advice and guidance” to the White House, collaborating with the Office of Management and Budget to implement significant structural reforms and fortify an entrepreneurial approach. He expressed that this initiative would be a disruptor to the government system.
President Trump mentioned that this duo will lead the way for his administration to streamline bureaucracy, reduce unnecessary regulations, cut wasteful spending, and restructure federal agencies.
Musk pledged on his social media platform X to document all department actions online for maximum transparency. He encouraged the public to provide feedback if they believe something important is being cut or something unnecessary is being retained.
Ramaswamy acknowledged his appointment on the X show, promising to work diligently alongside Musk, symbolized by an American flag emoji.
The operational model of this organization remains unclear and may be subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act, which defines the operations and accountability of external bodies advising the government.
As Musk and Ramaswamy are not official federal employees, they are not obligated to disclose assets, divest holdings, or adhere to ethical restrictions imposed on federal employees.
Musk advocated for the government’s efficiency division, emphasizing the acronym “Doge” and promising a comprehensive audit of the federal government’s finances and performance for fundamental reforms.
Dogecoin’s value has surged post-Election Day amid hopes of deregulation under the Trump administration, benefiting Tesla stock which has also seen a rise since the election.
President Trump expects their work to conclude by July 4, 2026, presenting a more compact and efficient government as a “gift” on the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary.
Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur, endorsed Trump after withdrawing from the Republican nomination race last year. He has significant experience in cost-cutting within the corporate realm.
Musk aims to slash government spending by $2 trillion, which could impact his companies such as Tesla, SpaceX, X, and Neuralink due to deregulation and policy changes.
Incorporating a government portfolio into Musk’s endeavors could bolster his companies’ market value and specialties like artificial intelligence and cryptocurrencies.
Analyst Daniel Ives from Wedbush Securities believes Musk will have a significant impact in the Trump administration and on federal agencies.
Critics from Public Citizen, a consumer rights organization, oppose Musk’s appointment, citing his lack of experience in government efficiency and concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
President Trump indicated that Musk, due to his numerous commitments, will not serve full-time in the role but will act as a cost-cutting advisor.
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