Why Trump Can't Ignore Elon Musk's Financial Power – Even If He Doesn't Like Him

It's no secret that Elon Musk and former president Donald Trump have had a rocky relationship. During the 2016 presidential election, Musk told CNBC, "I feel a bit stronger that he is not the right guy," and said that he doesn't have the sort of character that reflects well on the U.S. 

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In 2022, Trump called Musk a "bullshit artist" for supporting his opponents in 2016 and 2020. "I said, ‘I didn't know that,'" Trump said at a rally. "He told me he voted for me, so he's another bullshit artist." 

Lately, though, it seems the two have been cozying up to one another. After Trump was shot in July, Musk officially posted his endorsement for Trump on X. On Aug. 12, they sat down to chat on Spaces, X's platform for live audio streaming. 

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Elon Musk is a significant supporter of the Trump campaign and has said that he will donate around $45 million a month to a super PAC supporting the former president's election. Musk's America PAC has emerged as a major financial player, raising millions and coordinating closely with Trump's campaign, thanks to a recent Federal Election Commission (FEC) rule change. The PAC moved $16 million into voter outreach efforts in several key states in just a few weeks.

However, while Trump may rely on Musk's financial contribution, sources close to him state that he finds Musk "weird" and "boring," describing him as moody and tiresome. Despite these personal misgivings, Trump is fully aware of the strategic importance of Musk's support. With a campaign that has faced numerous challenges, including a lackluster ground game, Musk's resources are too valuable for Trump to ignore.

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Musk's involvement in the 2024 campaign has not been without controversy. His PAC has faced legal scrutiny in states like Michigan and North Carolina for allegedly collecting personal data under pretenses during voter registration drives. While the PAC has denied any wrongdoing, these allegations have added another layer of complexity to Trump's already contentious campaign.

Not everyone sees Musk's involvement as a positive development for the Trump campaign. Critics argue that Musk's erratic behavior and controversial actions could ultimately harm the campaign, particularly surrounding any potential legal issues and public backlash that Musk may face. 

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While Trump's alliance with Musk may just seem for show, it paints a bigger picture about the truth behind modern politics: financial power can override personal preferences. Trump's campaign has struggled to generate the same momentum as his previous runs, and the financial backing that Musk provides plays a critical role in his reelection. 

For voters and observers, this partnership raises important questions about the role of money in politics and the compromises candidates are willing to make to secure victory.

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