Elon Musk, the American billionaire and current head of the self-styled Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has decided to pull back from politics and return his focus to running Tesla and Space X. According to a report by The Washington Post, Musk made this decision after facing significant public backlash, unexpected levels of criticism, and threats to personal safety linked to his heavy financial backing of Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.
Musk reportedly spent at least $288 million (around £227 million) to support Trump’s campaign efforts. However, sources close to the businessman suggest that the reaction from the public and media was far stronger than he anticipated. As criticism mounted, both Musk and his companies became targets — including reports of Tesla vehicles being set on fire in politically charged acts of vandalism.
Concerned for the safety of his family, Musk has now chosen to shift his attention back to his core businesses, Tesla and Space X. Observers believe this marks a clear retreat from his political ambitions and influence attempts in Washington.
This move follows a controversial interview Musk gave to Bloomberg News, in which he behaved erratically, repeatedly interrupted the moderator, and dodged difficult questions. The interview raised further concerns about his conduct and judgment at a time when his political involvement had already become a lightning rod for criticism.
Previously, Musk announced intentions to cut back on political donations, having spent an estimated $300 million (roughly £236 million) on political causes — much of it directed at supporting Trump’s return to power. His attempt to reinvent himself as a kingmaker in American politics has drawn widespread scepticism, especially among critics of Trump and his far right allies in the US Congress.
