How Musk built his empire off of government contracts
Mar 3, 2025
auto_awesome
Europe is stepping up support for Ukraine following a heated Trump-Zelenskyy meeting, with new military and economic aid on the table. Elon Musk's ventures, while often critical of government funding, have profited significantly from taxpayer dollars. The Oscars showcased 'Anora' sweeping major awards, including an unexpected Best Actress win for Mikey Madison. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Israel suspends humanitarian aid to Gaza, prompting urgent calls to address the ongoing crisis.
European leaders, following a tense meeting with Trump and Zelensky, have pledged increased military and economic support for Ukraine's sovereignty.
The figure skating community held a tribute for mid-air collision victims, advocating for aviation safety reform while supporting affected families.
Deep dives
Government Support for Ukraine
European allies have significantly increased their support for Ukraine following a contentious meeting involving U.S. leadership and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The U.K. has committed nearly $2 billion to bolster Ukraine's defenses, which includes £1.6 billion allocated for purchasing air defense missiles. Additionally, plans for a peace proposal involving a ceasefire and maintaining economic pressure on Russia have been elaborated, emphasizing Ukraine's sovereignty. However, the meeting was marred by confrontational exchanges, with U.S. officials reprimanding Zelensky, which drew criticism from various quarters for undermining diplomatic relations.
Elon Musk's Growth Fueled by Government Funding
An investigation revealed that Elon Musk's business ventures, particularly Tesla and SpaceX, have received substantial government support over the years, totaling nearly $38 billion. Many of these contracts, loans, and subsidies have been pivotal in navigating the challenging early stages of these companies, with a notable $465 million loan from the Energy Department being critical for Tesla's survival during its 2008 crisis. Despite his success, Musk has recently advocated for the end of these government incentives that facilitated his rise, highlighting an ironic twist in his story. This situation raises concerns about the impact of his proposed cuts on future innovators who might benefit from similar partnerships.
Tribute to Figure Skating Victims
The figure skating community paid heartfelt tribute to the victims of a tragic mid-air collision, which resulted in the loss of 11 young skaters and several coaches. The tribute event showcased performances by more than 40 current and retired Team USA skaters, each honoring the fallen by placing a white rose on a designated table before their routines. The event not only aimed to celebrate the lives lost but also to advocate for aviation safety reform, with messages calling for bipartisan legislation displayed prominently. Funds raised during the show were dedicated to supporting victims' families and first responders, highlighting the community's unity and resilience.
On today’s show: After a contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, European leaders rallied around Ukraine and pledged increased economic and military support. ABC News has the details on the new aid and a proposed framework for a peace deal to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.
Desmond Butler with the Washington Post reports that Elon Musk – whose DOGE team is trying to cut down on government funding — is himself one of the biggest beneficiaries of taxpayer money, having received at least $38 billion from government contracts over more than 20 years.
At the Oscars, ‘Anora’ stunned the movie world by taking home many of the most prestigious awards, NBC News reports. The Hollywood Reporter has a complete list of Sunday’s winners.
Plus, Israel halted all humanitarian aid into Gaza on Sunday amid rising ceasefire tensions, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the measles outbreak is a “call to action for all of us,” and the figure-skating community paid tribute to the victims of the recent midair collision near Washington, D.C.
Today’s episode was hosted by Shumita Basu.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode