Steve Bannon, the former chief strategist for Donald Trump and a prominent figure in the far-right media landscape, has now reportedly called for a special counsel investigation into Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and SpaceX.
During a recent episode of his online show, Bannon raised concerns about Musk’s government contracts and alleged drug use, suggesting that the entrepreneur’s behavior poses a national security risk.
In an interview with Chuck Todd, the former political chief of NBC News, Bannon characterized Musk as increasingly problematic following a public altercation with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent at the White House.
Bannon claimed that Musk was rumored to be “micro-dosing” prior to this encounter, raising questions about his fitness for the significant responsibilities associated with his federal contracts.
Bannon highlighted that a substantial portion of SpaceX’s revenue—approximately 90%—comes from government contracts, arguing that this reliance necessitates greater scrutiny.
He proposed that the government should consider nationalizing SpaceX, asserting that the company effectively functions as a government entity due to its financial ties to federal funding.
“Why do we not have warrants or options for the American taxpayer?” Bannon asked, asserting that Musk has accrued significant wealth from taxpayer-funded contracts.
He described Musk’s influence as potentially detrimental, suggesting that the entrepreneur’s actions could threaten national security interests.
During the discussion, Todd inquired about the feasibility of such investigations, to which Bannon responded that a special counsel would be the most effective way to oversee the matter.
He suggested that Musk should have his security clearance revoked pending the outcome of the investigation. “He never would have passed a security clearance as just a mid-level staffer,” Bannon asserted, highlighting Musk’s past behavior as concerning.
Bannon’s comments underscore a broader tension within conservative circles regarding Musk, who has been both praised and criticized for his bold business moves and influence in various sectors.
While some view him as an innovative force, others, including Bannon, have increasingly framed him as a liability, particularly in light of his interactions with government entities.
This latest call for scrutiny reflects the growing polarization surrounding Musk, especially as he continues to navigate complex relationships with both government and private interests.
As the tech entrepreneur expands his influence, the implications of Bannon’s allegations could resonate throughout the political and business landscapes, prompting further debate over the intersection of technology, government contracts, and personal conduct.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this investigation, if pursued, would unfold and what impact it might have on Musk’s ventures and his standing within both the business community and the political arena.
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