Hard Fork The Trump-Musk Fallout + A DOGE Coder Speaks + ChefGPT
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Jun 6, 2025 
Sahil Lavingia, C.E.O. of Gumroad and former Doge employee, shares insights from his unique tenure within the Trump administration. He discusses the incredible challenges and quirks of navigating federal bureaucracy. Pete Wells, acclaimed former New York Times restaurant critic, explores how chefs are turning to A.I. for culinary inspiration, reflecting on the blend of technology and traditional cooking. The conversation also dives into the escalating feud between Trump and Musk, revealing its implications for politics and business.
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Musk-Trump Political Fallout
- Elon Musk and Donald Trump had a public and escalating feud triggered by Musk's opposition to a major budget bill benefiting Tesla and SpaceX.
- This falling out revealed the fragility of their political alliance and the high personal stakes for Musk in government contracts and subsidies.
Risks for Musk From Fallout
- Elon Musk risks losing significant financial benefits including Tesla subsidies and government contracts if estranged from Trump.
- Trump's allies have even called for investigating Musk's immigration status, highlighting political risks beyond business impact.
Musk Was Trump's Heat Shield
- Musk's departure removes a political 'heat shield' for Trump on unpopular decisions like federal cost-cutting.
- Without Musk, Trump's presidency will look different as he has to own decisions without Musk's deflection.