Trump wants Elon Musk to thrive — that’s what the former U.S. President said just days after warning he might revoke federal subsidies if the billionaire doesn’t support him politically.
The remark comes in the heat of the 2024 presidential campaign, where tech leaders like Elon Musk are increasingly playing a role in shaping public opinion, politics, and policy. Trump’s comments raise new questions about the relationship between politics and private industry, particularly when it comes to billion-dollar subsidies and influence.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s behind Trump’s statements, how Elon Musk has responded, and what this could mean for the future of the electric vehicle (EV) and space industries — and even free speech.
In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump praised Elon Musk, calling him a “smart guy” and saying, “I want him to thrive.” However, this comment came just after Trump threatened to pull federal subsidies for companies like Tesla if Musk didn’t support his presidential campaign.
“He’s getting a lot of government money,” Trump said. “If he’s not with us, maybe we take that away.”
It’s not the first time Trump has mixed compliments with thinly veiled threats. During his presidency, he praised business leaders while also pressuring them behind the scenes. Now, with the 2024 race heating up, Trump seems to be using a similar strategy again — especially toward high-profile entrepreneurs like Musk, who hold massive influence.
Trump’s comments likely refer to federal tax credits and government contracts that benefit Musk’s companies, mainly:
These subsidies and contracts are not personal gifts to Musk, but part of larger government programs aimed at supporting innovation, national defense, and the shift to clean energy.
Still, Trump’s remarks signal he might politicize these arrangements if Musk doesn’t fall in line.
As of now, Elon Musk hasn’t officially endorsed any candidate for the 2024 election. In the past, Musk has expressed frustration with both political parties, although he has leaned more conservative in recent years, particularly on cultural and free speech issues.
Musk responded to Trump’s remarks with a characteristically measured tone. While he didn’t engage directly with the threat, he posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“The government should not be in the business of picking winners and losers.”
This response reflects Musk’s growing push for government neutrality and free-market competition, even as his companies continue to benefit from public contracts.
The relationship between Trump and Musk has always been complex:
While both men see themselves as anti-establishment disruptors, they differ on several issues, especially climate change and foreign policy. Their alliance, if it ever becomes formal, would be driven more by strategy than shared values.
Musk is one of the most influential voices in the digital world today. Through X, Tesla, and his ventures in AI and space, he reaches millions — not just consumers, but voters.
Trump likely sees Musk as a potential megaphone or even kingmaker. Having Musk’s public or even silent support during the 2024 election could mean:
By saying “I want him to thrive,” Trump may be signaling an open door for partnership — as long as Musk doesn’t back someone else.
Let’s be clear: Trump can’t unilaterally revoke subsidies just because of political differences. Most of these funds are part of laws passed by Congress or contracts awarded through competitive processes.
However, if Trump were re-elected, he could:
This type of political leverage is not new, but it would raise serious questions about the independence of public policy from partisan politics.
Trump’s message to Musk could be part of a wider trend of political leaders pressuring private business figures to fall in line. In the last few years, we’ve seen:
This raises the question: Should public contracts and tax incentives be used as political weapons? And how much influence should billionaires like Musk have in return?
Whether or not Musk endorses Trump, his impact on society is undeniable:
With this much power, it’s no surprise that political candidates want Musk on their side — or at least not working against them.
So far, Elon Musk has stayed vague about his political intentions for 2024. He has said he prefers candidates who are “centrist” and support innovation, free speech, and economic growth.
There’s speculation that he might:
One thing is certain: whatever Musk does, it will make headlines.
At its core, this situation isn’t just about subsidies or political threats — it’s about power, influence, and control over the future of tech, energy, and information.
Trump wants Elon Musk to thrive — as long as Musk’s success doesn’t come at his political expense. Musk, meanwhile, wants his companies to keep growing without being used as political pawns.
Both are playing a high-stakes game. And the outcome could shape not just the 2024 election, but the direction of American innovation for years to come.
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