Steve Bannon has intensified his feud with Elon Musk during a recent interview with the British outlet Unherd, where he criticized Musk’s influence and referred to him as “a parasitic illegal immigrant.” This remark deepens the ongoing conflict between Bannon, a former key advisor to President Donald Trump, and Musk, who leads various high-profile tech initiatives.
In his conversation with James Billot of Unherd, Bannon condemned Musk, stating that he wishes to “impose his freak experiences” and act as if he were God, failing to respect America’s historical values. He further characterized Musk’s initiatives under the Department of Government Efficiency as merely “performative,” while suggesting that Trump is leveraging Musk as a tool to challenge the administrative state.
Despite his criticisms, Bannon expressed a degree of trust in Musk accessing government data, citing Trump’s assurances that Musk is responsible for his actions. Bannon’s derogatory remark about Musk stems from a Washington Post investigation alleging that Musk may have worked illegally in the U.S. early in his career, a claim Musk denied, asserting that he was allowed to work in the country.
Bannon has previously labeled Musk a “hard-core technofeudalist,” critiquing his views on human value and digital existence. He has also accused Musk of bringing personal grievances into professional discussions, particularly regarding Trump’s new “Stargate” joint venture, which Musk labeled as “fake” on social media.
Recently, Bannon stated that Musk should “return to South Africa,” raising concerns about the influence of non-Americans on American affairs. He has openly committed to keeping Musk at bay from the White House and is devising strategies to reduce Musk’s sway over Trump, equating Musk’s vision with a global implementation of “techno-feudalism.”
Crucial Quote
Bannon stated, “I’ve never seen someone on another aspect of the government that has been deputized by the president himself come in and openly criticize him,” emphasizing his concerns regarding Musk’s understanding of governmental structures.
Tangent
Musk has a complicated history with Sam Altman, with whom he co-founded OpenAI before parting ways and creating a rival company, xAI. Their ongoing disputes highlight a broader conflict within the tech landscape regarding control and direction of artificial intelligence development.
Key Background
The intensifying battle between Musk and Bannon follows Musk’s endorsement of H-1B visas aimed at attracting skilled foreign workers, which has caused rifts among Trump’s allies. Bannon has denounced the visa program as an “economic scam,” warning that he and his supporters will fiercely oppose Musk if he continues to back it. Trump has sided with Musk, describing the visa program positively, which has further complicated the dynamics within Trump’s circle.
Contra
Despite his criticism of Musk, Bannon has acknowledged the potential benefits of Musk’s financial influence in European politics, indicating a strategic alliance based on shared adversaries. He remarked that Musk’s resources could be crucial in advancing right-wing causes internationally.
Why Is Elon Musk Influential In Trump’s Orbit?
Musk, with a net worth nearing $400 billion, has positioned himself as one of Trump’s prominent allies, contributing over $200 million to support Trump’s 2024 campaign. He holds a co-chair position in the newly established Department of Government Efficiency, aimed at reducing federal spending but facing various legal challenges. Furthermore, Musk’s foray into global politics has alarmed European leaders, who view his influence as potentially disruptive.
What We Don’t Know
The extent of Bannon’s influence within Trump’s circles remains ambiguous. Though he has been a central figure in Trump’s campaigns, his relationship with Trump has fluctuated over time. Following his pardon by Trump after a conviction related to a border wall fundraising effort, Bannon’s current standing and impact on Trump’s decisions are still uncertain.
