Boston Brand Media has uncovered that billionaire Elon Musk has made a significant contribution to a super political action committee (PAC) supporting Donald Trump's presidential campaign. This marks a notable move by the world's richest person to influence the US political landscape. Musk has donated to the relatively obscure America PAC, according to anonymous sources. While the exact amount is unknown, it is described as substantial. The PAC is set to disclose its donors on July 15.
This action highlights Musk's increasing influence, as he tops the Bloomberg Billionaires Index with a net worth of $263.6 billion. It also signifies his shift from a self-proclaimed political independent to someone who frequently uses his X social-media platform to express right-leaning views and criticize Democrats.
Musk’s financial contribution to America PAC comes as Trump surpasses President Joe Biden in fundraising, with support from wealthy Wall Street and corporate donors. Biden’s fundraising has declined following a poor debate performance that led prominent Democratic donors to withhold their contributions. Although Musk has not publicly endorsed a candidate for the 2024 election and previously stated he would not fund either Trump or Biden, his recent donation positions him as a potential major financial supporter for Republicans. Requests for comments from Musk, the Trump campaign, and Chris Gober, America PAC’s treasurer, were not returned.
America PAC is primarily working behind the scenes to bolster Trump's campaign efforts on the ground. While Federal Election Commission disclosures do not specify locations, canvassing and voter mobilization are focused on key battleground states crucial for the election outcome. Musk’s involvement threatens Biden and the Democrats, who are already dealing with internal conflicts over the president's political future. Democrats have invested heavily in field offices and staff in swing states, often highlighted by Biden. A super PAC supporting Trump with similar efforts gives Republicans a significant financial advantage, allowing official campaign funds to be allocated elsewhere.
America PAC, the largest spender on direct voter contacts among pro-Trump organizations, has spent $15.8 million, with $13.1 million dedicated to field operations. The group focuses on door-to-door persuasion and get-out-the-vote efforts. A recent Federal Election Commission ruling allows super PACs to coordinate with campaigns on voter outreach. America PAC has hired In Field Strategies, a national grassroots firm also associated with the Republican National Committee. Representatives for In Field did not respond to requests for comment.
Elon Musk’s political donations further solidify his influence in Washington. His wealth primarily comes from his holdings in Tesla Inc., SpaceX, and X. These companies hold significant government contracts and often clash with federal agencies over regulations. Some of Trump’s proposed policies, such as reversing Biden's initiatives to promote electric vehicles and imposing tariffs on Chinese EV manufacturers, could directly affect Tesla.
Although Musk and Trump have had past disagreements, their relationship has strengthened, with Musk advising Trump on electric vehicle and cryptocurrency policies. At Tesla's recent annual meeting, Musk mentioned his interactions with Trump, stating, "He does call me out of the blue for no reason."
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Source: NDTV world