Elon Musk expressed concern on Wednesday about potential investigations by Democrats into his business dealings should they gain control of the House or Senate in the upcoming midterm elections. The tech billionaire reacted on social media to reports suggesting a Democratic agenda to scrutinize his role in the Trump administration's "Department of Government Efficiency," or DOGE.
Musk reshaped DOGE, which was established under President Donald Trump with the stated goal of reducing government spending. This initiative led to the dismantling of several key agencies, including the Department of Education and USAID, which managed civilian foreign aid. Critics have accused Musk of using DOGE to eliminate regulatory bodies that were investigating his companies.
Responding to a Politico report titled "Capitol Agenda: Dem Gavels Are Coming for Elon Musk," Musk posted on X, "Live by the sword, die by the sword. Those who pick fights with me should understand that I will find out who is really pulling the strings and come for them, not just their puppets…"
Tech journalist Kara Swisher commented on a clip of her remarks on The Bulwark podcast "Receipts," suggesting that Musk would face investigations if Democrats secured power. She stated that Musk had previously halted investigations into his companies and that he would likely be a primary target for renewed scrutiny. Musk responded to Swisher's comments on X, writing, "Sounds like Swisher really wants to go to prison."
Musk's companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, receive substantial federal contracts. While the prospect of investigations remains uncertain, Musk also reacted to other reports by posting on X, "Some fools still think the legacy news is real. Amazing."
Musk has previously stated that the military version of Starlink, used in conflict zones, is entirely owned and operated by the U.S. government. He has asserted that any limitations on its speed or usage are determined by the military and the President.