Musk goes MAGA
Many Americans are celebrating Musk's bromance with Republican presidential candidate, former President Donald Trump. They appreciate his embrace of Republican politics and the more than $100 million he has invested in winning Trump's presidency. In typical Musk fashion, he has gone all in on a cause he considers essential to the future of his interests and those of humanity, even while temporarily living in Pennsylvania.
But for many other Americans, the reaction to Musk's activities was disgust. He has used social network These people are increasingly uncomfortable with Musk's power over the U.S. space program and the country's electric car industry, as well as his ability to influence geopolitical affairs through the Starlink constellation for which no viable competitor currently exists. The idea that Musk regularly talks to Putin, an outspoken enemy of the United States and Western democracies, is deeply uncomfortable.
After decades of nurturing a libertarian streak, Musk has become ultra-political. He is loved. He is hated. Because he is so personally embodied by the brands of his largest companies – much of Tesla's stock value is based on Musk's perceived ability to steer into the future. is SpaceX – there will inevitably be consequences, not just for the man, but for his brands.
Musk's increasingly partisan positions have already hit Tesla, potentially reducing sales to Democratic-leaning voters. But until recently, SpaceX largely flew above the fray. However, that could change. For example, during Musk's recent confrontation with Brazil, the Internet service Starlink came into focus.
Implications for SpaceX
At the very least, Musk will likely face increasing calls for his national security clearance to be revoked in the wake of Friday's report. As a launch provider for sensitive Department of Defense missions, Musk has access to privileged information about the capabilities of spy satellites and other national security assets. He also has critical contracts with the US military for Starlink communications services under the Starshield business unit.
