Whom did the US elect? The Republican ticket for the recent election featured Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. Yet, November’s events painted a different picture, spotlighting another figure influencing the nation’s destiny: Elon Musk. Known as the tech mogul behind Twitter, Tesla, and SpaceX, Musk has ventured into politics, becoming a key figure shaping government appointments and strategies for the next U.S. administration. We were already familiar with him in various roles—the entrepreneur who acquired Twitter and slashed its workforce by more than half, the visionary who revitalised the space program, and the automaker whose futuristic trucks turn heads on the street. Now, seemingly overnight, Elon Musk had stepped into the political arena, headlining rallies, influencing government appointments, and shaping the agenda for the next President of the United States.
Musk’s Expanding Influence
Elon Musk’s power has been evident for years, from his tweets shaking markets to his satellites aiding military advancements. However, the recent election revealed the full scope of his clout. Not since William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century has a private citizen wielded such comprehensive influence across media, culture, economy, and now politics. In a sense we can now see him moving from being a Tech Mogul to a Political Power Broker. All we can see now is standing alongside Trump, Musk projects a vision that extends beyond earthly concerns.
Their partnership currently appears strong, unified by their shared desire to disrupt government norms. However, their strong-willed natures suggest potential clashes ahead, raising questions about how Musk’s influence might unfold in Washington. However, Musk’s ultimate goal, according to those close to him, remains interplanetary exploration, particularly colonising Mars. Controlling U.S. government budgets, they suggest, accelerates this mission compared to private funding alone. But this raises concerns about the implications of a private visionary shaping public policy to suit personal ambitions.
The Price of Influence
While Musk’s wealth surged post-election—adding $50 billion to his fortune—his true objectives appear less about money and more about ideology. However, his vision comes with potential costs to millions of Americans, particularly if social programs are slashed to meet his proposed $2 trillion in federal spending cuts. But at the same time, a conflict of interest seemed to be evident in his thoughts and action, raising to several concerns in the market and even in political circles. Musk’s influence raises ethical questions, as many of his companies face regulatory scrutiny. Critics argue that his proximity to the Trump administration could lead to conflicts of interest, with Musk benefiting from his role while shaping policies that could favour his enterprises.
A Star is Born: Musk’s Role in the Trump Campaign
Trump lauded Musk as a “super genius” who revitalised his campaign strategy, notably mobilising voters in swing states. Musk’s influence extended beyond his $120 million contribution, energising Trump’s campaign with ingenuity and bolstering his appeal to younger voters. In a sense, you can find an appeal when it comes to Musk’s vision. For the Trump supporters, Musk’s presence offered more than financial backing—it brought credibility and innovation. Musk’s reputation for delivering on ambitious promises contrasted with critics’ portrayal of Trump’s business dealings, providing a potent combination for voters craving change.
DOGE: A New Entity for Government Efficiency
Trump appointed Musk to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), tasked with streamlining federal operations. While ambitious, DOGE has drawn scepticism about its potential to enact meaningful reforms, given the entrenched nature of federal bureaucracy. However, critics raise a question about his ideology over practicality, which is evident by his detractors. Critics argue that DOGE might serve ideological aims rather than practical governance improvements. Musk’s commitment to free speech and his disdain for the so-called “woke mind virus” suggest a cultural agenda intertwined with his policy goals. But at the same time, there is a risk of oligarchic influence. Observers might like the Musk-Trump alliance to historical oligarchies, warning of the risks when private individuals wield significant influence over government. Comparisons to Russian oligarchs highlight potential dangers, including conflicts of interest and weakened institutional integrity.
What Lies Ahead?
Musk’s vision for leaner government resonates with many, but its feasibility and consequences remain uncertain. If executed responsibly, his approach could revitalise bureaucracy. However, if misused, it risks undermining democratic institutions and amplifying inequality.
As the partnership between Musk and Trump takes shape, America faces a pivotal moment: Will this new alignment foster innovation and efficiency, or will it prioritise personal ambition over public good? The coming years will reveal whether this unconventional duo can navigate the challenges of governance without losing sight of the democratic ideals they aim to reshape.
Mohd Ziyauallah Khan is a freelance content writer & editor based in Nagpur. He is also an activist and social entrepreneur, co-founder of the group TruthScape, a team of digital activists fighting disinformation on social media.
