What Next | Daily News and Analysis TBD | Musk vs. MAGA
Jan 3, 2025
Ryan Mac, tech reporter for The New York Times and co-author of "Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter," dives into the rift between Elon Musk and the MAGA movement sparked by Musk's support for H-1B visas. He details how this moment illuminated tensions within the MAGA coalition, revealing conflicting loyalties and the impact of social media on political alliances. Mac also explores the role of immigration in tech, the dynamics of big tech's influence on politics, and the irony surrounding free speech on platforms like Twitter.
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Loomer's Criticism
- Laura Loomer criticized Sriram Krishnan, a venture capitalist nominated for an AI policy job by Trump, for his Indian origin and alleged support for H-1B visas.
- This sparked online anger and a weeks-long conversation about H-1Bs, splitting the MAGA party.
Musk's Defense
- Elon Musk defended H-1B visas, emphasizing their importance for American companies like SpaceX and Tesla.
- He stated his willingness to "go to war" on this issue, highlighting his strong stance on legal immigration.
H-1B Visa Importance
- H-1B visas are crucial for US companies hiring high-skilled foreign workers, especially in tech.
- Companies like Tesla, Apple, and Google rely on these visas to supplement their workforce with specialized talent.
