The Impact of the World’s Richest Man on American Democracy

Washington:

How much influence can the world’s richest man have over one of the world’s oldest democracies? Next week’s election is not just about Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, but also a measure of Elon Musk’s influence on American democracy.

Although Musk has donated modestly to both Republicans and Democrats in the past, including $5,000 to Hillary Clinton in 2016, this time he spent $119 million to mobilize Trump supporters and used his social media platform, X, to to spread pro-Trump propaganda. He’s also a big presence at Trump rallies in crucial battleground states, recently unveiling his “Dark gothic MAGA” side.

Musk’s involvement drew attention, particularly after he skipped a hearing related to a lawsuit over his efforts to give millions to registered voters — a move experts liken to vote-buying.

He is also under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission and has been reported to have regular communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin, raising national security concerns over SpaceX’s contracts with NASA and the Department of Defense.

In addition to being the eye of the storm when it comes to politics, business and foreign policy, he now runs America PAC, a super PAC supporting Trump’s get-out-the-vote effort. Despite initial struggles, Musk brought in new consultants, and on paper, the numbers improved. Still, Republican officials question the effectiveness of the PAC’s ground game in critical states like Georgia.

Musk’s frustration with his PAC led him to bring in private-sector associates like Steve Davis of the Boring Company. In addition, his companies, particularly Tesla, face regulatory challenges that could be eased if Trump wins.

Trump told Fox News, “Elon has a lot of roles that he could take on.” The former president even suggested that Musk could play a role in his next administration by focusing on government efficiency — a move that raises significant conflict-of-interest concerns.

As the election nears, Musk’s influence and controversy will undoubtedly remain in the spotlight.