Teddy Schleifer

Teddy Schleifer, a journalist from The New York Times, dives into Elon Musk's surprising political evolution. He discusses Musk's transition from a humanitarian tech leader to a key player in the Trump administration, revealing the tension within Silicon Valley's political landscape. Highlights include Musk's initial reluctance to endorse Trump, the unexpected partnership that developed during the 2016 election, and how Musk's influence is reshaping federal policy. The conversation also touches on shifting loyalties among tech titans and the cultural dynamics shaping political narratives.

Teddy Schleifer and Ken Vogel, both New York Times reporters, dive into the alarming influence of billionaires on American elections. They explore how mega-donors are reshaping democracy, emphasizing the secrecy of political donations and the opacity of dark money. The duo discusses the implications of wealthy philanthropists influencing policy, particularly around social issues like reproductive rights. They also reflect on the intertwining of corporate funding and political power, raising crucial questions about transparency and the future of electoral integrity.

Kurt Wagner, a Bloomberg News reporter specializing in Elon Musk, interviews Teddy Schleifer from the New York Times, who covers political money and billionaires. They delve into Musk's ambitions for his AI company, xAI, discussing its quirky Grok 4 chatbot and its ties to SpaceX. Wagner and Schleifer explore Musk's influential yet unofficial role during the Trump administration, highlighting his attempts to sway political decisions. The conversation reveals the intricate interplay between Musk's tech ventures and political aspirations.