Tesla CEO Elon Musk has long been vocal about his views on U.S. immigration policy, advocating for increased legal immigration while calling for tougher enforcement against illegal crossings.
During a September 2023 visit to the U.S.-Mexico border, Musk underscored his stance, arguing that America should welcome hardworking immigrants but must also uphold the law. This complex view on immigration, shaped by his own experiences as an immigrant, has sparked significant attention.
An often-overlooked chapter of Musk's life involves his early years in the U.S. when he and his brother, Kimbal Musk, were building their first startup, Zip2.
What Happened: In a 2013 Milken Institute event, Kimbal Musk openly shared that both he and Elon were “illegal immigrants” during the launch of Zip2 — their first U.S.-based company, CNN reports.
Elon Musk interjected, calling the situation a “gray area.” Still, the anecdote highlights a less-discussed chapter in his personal immigration journey.
It is unclear what kind of visas they had at the time.
According to CNN, investors helped the Musk brothers secure legal status shortly after funding arrived.
More recently, Elon Musk aligned his views with those of JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon, who warned that failure to control the border would “destroy our country.” Musk echoed Dimon's sentiments on X, agreeing that border control is critical to national security.
Why It Matters: Elon Musk's personal immigration story, particularly the details shared by his brother, adds complexity to his vocal stance on immigration reform. His calls for stricter enforcement of U.S. immigration laws, juxtaposed with the challenges he faced as an immigrant entrepreneur, reflect the broader challenges many face within the current system.
This background also resonates with voters, as immigration remains a key issue heading into the 2024 presidential election.
Musk's influence, especially through his platform X, continues to drive significant public discourse around the need for legal immigration reforms while addressing illegal immigration concerns. His agreement with Dimon on border security amplifies the debate, positioning Musk as a central figure in this conversation.
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