Why does Elon Musk support Donald Trump so much? Since the assassination attempt against the Republican candidate for the American presidency in July, the entrepreneur has given himself body and soul. A frequent donor, media and ideological support through his social network
The answer may seem simple: it is obviously the candidate to whom he is closest. Both on the subjects of freedom of expression, the right to abortion or geopolitics. But this question masks another: why is Musk so interested in the race for the White House? In a survey published at the beginning of the week, the New York Times provides an answer, by unraveling the many relationships of interest between the businessman and the American federal state.
On the first side there are the solid gold contracts, such as those which link the space nugget Space X to NASA or Defense, for more than 15 billion dollars, figures the newspaper. His automobile company Tesla is less well off, with “only” $352,000. But it benefits, despite everything, from valuable connections with the agencies of Commerce, Agriculture, Transport, Homeland Security, and even Energy. Last year alone, as many as 17 federal entities signed on with Elon Musk’s companies. The hundred contracts bringing in around $3 billion. “Given Mr. Musk’s immense commercial footprint, he will be a major player, regardless of who wins the election,” emphasizes the New York Times.
Who is making short work of the other?
On the other hand, around twenty investigations and even legal proceedings have been launched against its various entities, including its Starlink division (satellite Internet access provider) and the neurotechnology startup Neuralink. So many unfair ramparts, in his eyes. Starlink was also refused a grant of nearly $900,000 from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A situation that deeply annoys the businessman. Who greedily cultivates the idea of taking the reins of a “governmental efficiency commission” that Trump could entrust to him if he wins the American elections.
It’s difficult for Musk to be clearer about his intentions: to influence public support. A subject that he masters to perfection to be a great beneficiary of it, even if he likes to suggest the opposite. Of Trump and Musk, who is really the other’s springboard? The star entrepreneur could not introduce himself, let us remember. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, he is simply ineligible for office.