Search Engine DOGE and the Mystery of the State Department Teslas
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Mar 7, 2025 
Bobby Allyn, a tech correspondent at NPR known for his sharp investigative skills, dives into the mysterious nexus of technology and politics. He unpacks the complex relationship between Silicon Valley and Washington, focusing on a $400 million State Department contract for armored Teslas. The conversation reveals the implications of Elon Musk's ventures on public trust and government efficiency. Allyn also highlights the challenges journalists face in unraveling public perception and accountability amidst ever-shifting political landscapes.
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The Tesla Mystery Begins
- Reporter Ryan Grimm found a curious line item in the State Department's budget.
- It proposed spending $400 million on armored Teslas, raising questions about potential corruption.
Cybertruck's Armor Questionable
- Tesla does not currently manufacture armored vehicles, only the Cybertruck.
- The Cybertruck's window famously cracked during a demonstration, raising doubts about its armor.
Doge and Power Dynamics
- Elon Musk's Doge initiative aims to cut government waste, echoing Curtis Yarvin's views.
- Both Musk and Trump express mutual admiration for each other's power.