Elon Musk claimed on Thursday that Donald Trump could not have secured a second term without his assistance, a statement that raises questions of accountability. It is evident that Trump’s election campaign significantly relied on Musk’s involvement. In 2024, Trump appointed Musk as a key player in his campaign strategy, particularly in crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania.
Musk, who is the world’s richest individual, made considerable financial contributions to the election, exceeding AU $445 million to back both Trump and congressional Republicans, establishing him as the largest disclosed donor in federal elections last year. The confrontation between Musk and Trump has created a notable rift in an unprecedented dynamic of candidate and donor relationships in American politics. In one of his posts, Musk asserted that Trump’s success was largely due to him, claiming the opposition would have controlled Congress without his influence.
Republican strategist Dennis Lennox remarked on Musk’s assertion of influence, calling it “incredibly arrogant” yet perhaps somewhat true. The partnership capitalised on a Federal Election Commission decision allowing for greater coordination between campaigns and external political action committees for canvassing. Musk’s America PAC alone allocated over AU $149 million for field operations and canvassing, bolstering Trump’s campaign through imposing digital advertising strategies.
Despite Musk’s significant contributions, experts like Lennox highlighted various factors contributing to Trump’s victories in pivotal states, including public sentiments following assassination attempts on Trump and turmoil within the Democratic party’s leadership. Musk’s strategies also included leveraging X, the social media platform he owns, to amplify messaging in favour of Trump.
His campaign efforts were comprehensive, involving not just door-to-door outreach but also unique initiatives, like a million-dollar giveaway to voters, which received legal scrutiny. Musk actively participated in rallies, particularly in Pennsylvania, and hosted town hall meetings, striving to maintain a visible presence during the campaign’s last days.
However, Musk’s political prowess appeared to wane as he transitioned from his role in the Trump administration, which focused on reducing governmental size but fell short of expectations. His relationship with Trump became strained due to differing views on critical legislative efforts, culminating in their public dispute.
Musk’s political strategy faced setbacks, evidenced by a failed investment of over AU $30 million in a Wisconsin Supreme Court race, where his endorsed candidate lost decisively. This downward trajectory of Musk’s influence raises concerns about his ability to mobilise voters effectively in future elections, signalling potential challenges ahead for his political aspirations.