Today in Focus A trip to Musk city
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Jun 4, 2025 
Oliver Laughland, the Guardian US Southern Bureau Chief, shares insights from Starbase, Texas, the burgeoning hub of SpaceX. He discusses the local community's mixed feelings about SpaceX's growth, balancing job creation against environmental and gentrification concerns. The episode also touches on the ethical implications of Musk's ambitions, reflecting on the community's hopes for space exploration versus pressing socio-economic issues. Laughland explores the potential of SpaceX becoming its own city, revealing the intricate relationship between innovation and ethical leadership.
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Starbase's Unique Cultural Transformation
- Starbase, Texas, transformed by SpaceX, features streets renamed and murals celebrating Elon Musk and Dogecoin culture.
- The area blends extreme industrial progress with striking signs of Musk's wealth and futuristic ambition.
Local Ambivalence Toward SpaceX
- Locals in Brownsville express mixed feelings: SpaceX brought jobs but also led to rising rent and gentrification.
- Some residents feel overwhelmed by corporate power and fear it threatens their community's survival.
Environmental Concerns at SpaceX Site
- SpaceX's launch site borders a state park with endangered species, causing concerns over habitat destruction.
- Environmental activists accuse SpaceX of environmental racism for exploiting vulnerable communities.