Friday, October 23, 2026 - Elon Musk has sharply criticised reports that Democrats could investigate his government activities and business interests if they gain control of either chamber of Congress.
In posts on X on Wednesday, Musk responded to a Politico
report outlining potential inquiries into his leadership of the Department of
Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. The report said House Democrats wanted to
examine the dismantling of congressionally authorised agencies, alleged
conflicts of interest involving Musk’s companies and claims concerning
restrictions on Ukraine’s access to Starlink.
Musk warned that he would investigate those behind efforts
to scrutinise him. “Those who pick fights with me should understand that I will
find out who is really pulling the strings and come for them, not just their
puppets,” he wrote. He also responded to comments by technology journalist Kara
Swisher during an interview with The Bulwark.
Swisher argued that Musk could face renewed investigations
if Democrats regain congressional control. She alleged that DOGE’s actions had
interrupted several investigations involving his companies and suggested those
inquiries could resume. Musk replied by suggesting that Swisher wanted to go to
prison.
In a separate exchange, Musk criticised traditional news organisations,
prompting Wall Street Journal national security reporter Alexander Ward to ask
whether the remark was a response to his reporting on Starlink. Ward shared a
report titled “Musk Ordered Starlink Slowdown That Blindsided Ukraine.” Musk
had previously disputed responsibility for the reported disruption, saying the
affected service was Starshield, the military version of the satellite
communications system.
He maintained that restrictions on that service were
determined by the US military and ultimately the president. “Any limits on
speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS,” Musk
wrote. He separately said SpaceX’s commercial Starlink service was restricted
to civilian and defensive uses and should not support offensive military
operations.
The exchanges highlighted competing accounts of
responsibility for the reported disruption in Ukraine and the prospect of
congressional scrutiny of Musk’s government role and business interests. Musk
also posted criticism of Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico,
against whom he has reportedly spent more than $150 million.
0 Comments