On the Media

Learning Elon Musk’s Media Playbook. Plus, Silicon Valley’s Rightwing Roots.

67 snips
Feb 21, 2025
Will Oremus, a tech reporter at The Washington Post, dives into Elon Musk's role in shaping modern media narratives and right-wing politics, highlighting his controversial feuds and influence on public perception. Becca Lewis discusses Silicon Valley's conservative transition and its impact on technology's role in governance. Elyse Graham reveals how scholars and librarians became unlikely spies during WWII, showcasing the power of narrative manipulation in conflict. Together, these insights unravel the complex interplay between tech and politics both historically and today.
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ANECDOTE

Fort Knox Conspiracy

  • Elon Musk replied to a Zero Hedge post questioning Fort Knox's gold reserves, sparking a conspiracy theory.
  • This led to media coverage and even an official response from Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, confirming the gold's presence.
ANECDOTE

Reuters "Social Deception"

  • Elon Musk questioned Reuters' funding after they criticized DOGE, alleging a government connection to "social deception."
  • This referred to a Thomson Reuters subsidiary's contract for countering social deception in cyberattacks, not the news agency.
ANECDOTE

Politico Funding Conspiracy

  • Following Politico's delayed payroll report, online speculation linked it to USAID funding cuts, fueling conspiracy theories.
  • Musk amplified the narrative, suggesting government influence despite Politico Pro's bipartisan nature and accessibility through subscriptions.
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