Elon Musk Podcast Musk’s Treasury Allies Tried to Shut Down USAID Payments Using Secretive Federal System, Emails Reveal
Feb 7, 2025
The podcast dives into a political maneuvering saga, revealing how Musk's allies at Treasury sought to block USAID payments soon after Trump took office. Leaked emails expose the intense power struggle, legal threats, and high-stakes decisions over billions in federal funds. Listeners uncover the surprising connections between federal payment controls and a sports betting platform promotion. It's a compelling intersection of politics, finance, and the influence of high-profile figures.
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Unconventional Control
- Musk's team's attempt to control spending through Treasury's payment system was unprecedented.
- This raised concerns about political overreach and access to financial data.
Treasury Power Struggle
- Days after Trump's inauguration, Musk's Treasury allies tried to halt USAID funding.
- Career officials resisted, citing legal concerns, creating a power struggle.
USAID Targeting
- Musk's allies targeted USAID's health programs, impacting healthcare in developing nations.
- These programs funded hospitals and initiatives in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Haiti.