In recent years, Elon Musk has used his social media platform X to support and promote right-wing politicians such as Javier Milei in Argentina, Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, and Narendra Modi in India. By endorsing these politicians, Musk has been able to secure benefits for his companies, Tesla and SpaceX. For example, in Argentina, Musk has shown an interest in lithium, a key component in Tesla’s car batteries, and Milei has pushed for benefits for international lithium miners that would benefit Tesla. This pattern of Musk cultivating relationships with right-wing leaders has helped further his business interests.
In India, Musk’s relationship with Prime Minister Modi has been ongoing since 2015, when they discussed using solar panels and battery packs to power rural regions in India. Musk has used X to endorse Modi and push for benefits for Tesla in India, such as lower import tariffs for electric vehicles. Similarly, in Brazil, Musk supported President Bolsonaro and helped launch his Starlink satellite internet service in the country. By aligning himself with these leaders, Musk has been able to expand his business interests and secure advantageous deals.
Milei, a libertarian economist and TV pundit in Argentina, has also benefitted from his relationship with Musk. Musk has promoted Milei on X and supported his policies, particularly around the extraction of lithium in Argentina. Milei’s legislation includes incentives for foreign investors in large projects, benefiting Tesla’s lithium supplier and providing the company with stability in accessing lithium. Additionally, Milei has used his connection with Musk to boost his international profile and gain support from right-wing figures like Donald Trump.
Musk’s involvement in politics and relationships with world leaders like Milei, Modi, and Bolsonaro have raised questions about his motivations and the impact on his companies. While Musk’s interactions with politicians have led to business advantages for Tesla and SpaceX, they have also drawn criticism for his support of right-wing ideologies and his intervention in policymaking. By leveraging his influence and platform, Musk has been able to shape international discussions around key issues like lithium extraction, renewable energy, and satellite internet.
Overall, Musk’s engagement with politicians and world leaders reflects a strategic alignment of his personal, political, and business interests. By supporting right-wing figures and advocating for his companies’ needs, Musk has navigated a complex landscape of international politics and economics. However, these relationships have also sparked controversy and raised concerns about the influence of tech billionaires in global affairs. Moving forward, Musk’s interactions with political leaders will continue to be scrutinized for their impact on the business landscape and broader societal implications.
