Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) has challenged Elon Musk to a televised debate on policy matters, including wealth taxes and the impact of Musk's actions as former head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The challenge comes after Musk, the world's wealthiest individual, threatened to sue Khanna.
Khanna issued the dare during a CNBC interview Monday, suggesting the debate could take place on CNN, CNBC, or at a university, with Musk choosing the setting. "Let's debate what happened at DOGE. Let's debate why I'm for a wealth tax," Khanna stated. He added, "We can have a conversation of ideas if he believes in free speech."
The dispute began when Khanna, during an appearance on the "I've Had It" podcast released Saturday, called for accountability regarding Musk's role in dismantling USAID. Khanna cited a study suggesting this action could have life-threatening consequences for millions worldwide. Musk responded Monday on X, calling Khanna a "liar" and a "robber" and stating, "Time to sue this liar."
Musk was appointed by former President Donald Trump last year to lead DOGE, an initiative aimed at reducing government spending. Musk described USAID as a "criminal organization" and stated the DOGE standard was to "Provide contact information for the recipients of aid, so that we can confirm that it is not fraudulent." He also asserted that "money was being sent to corrupt politicians under the guise of aid!"
Khanna, who is reportedly considering a presidential run in 2028, has been an advocate for increased taxes on the wealthy. He had previously discussed Musk's impact on "Real Time with Bill Maher" on Friday and on the "I've Had It" podcast on Saturday. Musk acquired the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) for $44 billion in 2022. He also claimed he spent more than a quarter-billion dollars to aid Trump's reelection campaign.
While Khanna had referenced a study published in The Lancet, Musk dismissed the congressman's claims as coming from DOGE as "fake" and stated that the Department of State had "totally rebuilt our lifesaving aid portfolio" after USAID's dismantling. Musk also accused Khanna of insider trading.
Khanna noted in his interview that Musk had previously supported him, including on issues of censorship regarding Hunter Biden stories on X, but seemed to react negatively when Khanna brought up the Lancet study.
It remains uncertain whether Musk will accept Khanna's debate challenge.