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Dear John,
Elon Musk is out of control.
Projected to soon become the world’s first trillionaire, Musk is using his enormous wealth to advance right-wing causes all around the world.
But just because Elon Musk is the richest man in the world doesn’t mean we’re powerless to stop him.
In fact, I recently wrote a column in The Guardian newspaper proposing specific actions that can be taken by the public and elected leaders to rein him in (more details on that below). Musk responded to me with personal insults, calling me a “miniature wanker” and “Robert Reichtard.”
I’m not afraid of Elon Musk and his bullying. In fact, his infantile response simply provides more evidence of why he cannot be trusted with so much political and economic influence.
That’s why I’m writing to you today. Inequality Media is doubling down on our efforts to defend our democracy from right-wing oligarchs like Elon Musk, and your donations are essential to powering this campaign.
Will you pitch in $5 a month to help educate the public and defend democracy from Elon Musk’s massive wealth and unaccountable political power?
Yes, Robert! I’ll start a monthly donation.
No, I’m sorry, I can’t chip in monthly.
You know what a dangerous figure Elon Musk has become. So what exactly can be done about him? Here are some suggestions.
First, the Federal Trade Commission should demand that Musk take down lies posted on X/Twitter that are likely to endanger individuals or threaten our democracy — and if he does not, they should sue him under Section 5 of the FTC Act, which bars businesses from engaging in certain unfair or deceptive practices.
Musk’s free speech rights under the First Amendment don’t take precedence over the public interest. You can’t shout fire in a crowded theater, and just a few weeks ago the Supreme Court said federal agencies may pressure social media platforms to take down misinformation.
The U.S. government — and we taxpayers — have additional leverage over Musk, if we’re willing to use it: The U.S. should terminate its contracts with him, starting with Musk’s SpaceX.
In 2021, the United States entered into a $1.8 billion classified contract with SpaceX that includes blasting off classified and military satellites. The Pentagon has also contracted with SpaceX’s Starlink broadband service to pay for internet links, despite Musk’s refusal in September 2022 to allow Ukraine to use Starlink to launch an attack on Russian forces in Crimea.
Why is the U.S. government allowing Musk’s satellites and rocket launchers to become crucial to the nation’s security when he’s shown utter disregard for the public interest? Why give Musk more economic clout when he repeatedly abuses it and demonstrates contempt for the public good?
There is no good reason.
In addition to these steps, Musk can be checked through consumer boycotts, strengthened campaign finance laws, raising taxes on the ultra-wealthy, and more.
But with Musk pouring tens of millions into elections, stoking extremist racial violence, and openly advocating for civil war, we might not have much time to defend our democracy. Will you pitch in $5 a month to help educate the public and rein in Elon Musk?
Yes, Robert! I’ll start a monthly donation.
No, I’m sorry, I can’t chip in monthly.
Thank you for joining with us,
Robert Reich
Inequality Media
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