Blame the Supreme Court for Elon Musk’s Power in Trump’s Administration

Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has gained unprecedented political influence in the Trump administration, holding a White House office and playing a prominent role in Donald Trump’s inauguration. Musk’s political power is fueled by his massive wealth and $277 million in Super PAC contributions last year, made possible by the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United v. FEC decision, which removed limits on independent political spending. This decision has enabled billionaires like Musk to sway policy and governance through campaign financing. Musk’s America PAC spent $153 million on Trump’s presidential race, with new FEC rulings allowing coordination between campaigns and Super PACs further amplifying his influence. Musk’s wealth soared by $170 billion post-election, as investors anticipated favorable treatment for his companies, reported RollingStone.com.

While Kamala Harris also embraced corporate donors, her campaign finance approach contrasted with 2020 Democratic pledges to reform the system. President Biden warned of growing oligarchic power but did little to curb money’s political influence during his term. Musk’s case exemplifies the corruptive potential of Citizens United, threatening to drown out ordinary voices in favor of a wealthy few. Campaign finance reform and Supreme Court accountability are urgently needed to restore democratic integrity and serve the public interest over billionaire agendas.