POLITICO Tech What Elon Musk’s pending exit means for Washington
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Apr 7, 2025 Join Rachael Bade, Capitol Bureau Chief at POLITICO, and Issie Lapowsky, a seasoned tech journalist, as they delve into the implications of Elon Musk's possible departure from political influence. They discuss the political maneuvering he faces with Trump, the strains on his business, particularly Tesla's sales slump, and how wealth impacts political dynamics. The duo also explores Musk’s polarizing persona and the fears within Silicon Valley about his power, questioning what his exit could mean for the tech community and the political landscape.
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Musk's Exit
- Elon Musk's role in the Trump administration is weakening, with Trump telling his inner circle that Musk will be leaving soon.
- While the White House claims this was planned, the timing coincides with Musk's political and business setbacks.
Trump's Affection for Musk
- Trump genuinely likes Musk, admiring his wealth and youth, suggesting Musk won't vanish entirely from the political scene.
- However, Musk's increasing political baggage makes some Republicans eager for his departure.
Tesla's Troubles
- Tesla's stock price has dropped significantly since its post-election peak, and first-quarter sales declined.
- This demonstrates the business pressures on Musk.