7am

Kara Swisher has known Elon Musk for decades - she saw this coming

Feb 10, 2025
Kara Swisher, a seasoned tech journalist known for her sharp insights on Silicon Valley, shares her long history with Elon Musk and his recent drastic shifts in governance. She discusses Musk’s controversial role as head of the new 'Department of Government Efficiency' and warns of a techno-dictatorship emerging under his influence. Their unlikely alliance with Trump is dissected, revealing a power dynamic that raises concerns about free speech, censorship, and the overarching impact of Silicon Valley on democracy.
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ANECDOTE

Musk's Early Concerns

  • During the first Trump administration, Elon Musk confirmed to Kara Swisher his attendance at a meeting in Trump Tower.
  • Musk aimed to influence Trump's stance on immigration and climate change, expressing concerns about the world's perception of climate change and his commitment to positive actions.
INSIGHT

Musk's Shift in Views

  • Musk dramatically shifted his views on various issues, possibly due to personal experiences, COVID's impact on his factories, and online radicalization.
  • Factors like wealth, potential ketamine use, and his belief in Tesla's critical role in humanity's future may have contributed to his transformation.
INSIGHT

Musk's True Intentions

  • Whether Musk genuinely believes his controversial statements or uses them for distraction is irrelevant, as the impact remains negative.
  • He is a contrarian using extreme views to gain power, disregarding the harmful real-world consequences.
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