Muslim World Report

Elon Musk and Donald Trump: The Politics of 2024's Unthinkable

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Apr 7, 2025 9:33 AM | 9 min read | 1739 words

TL;DR: The potential candidacies of Elon Musk and Donald Trump in the 2024 election present significant challenges to American democracy. Musk’s technocratic vision could prioritize corporate interests, while Trump’s populism may further polarize the political landscape. Both scenarios raise questions about governance, accountability, and global stability, emphasizing the need for strategic responses.

The Unlikely Political Landscape: Musk and Trump in 2024

The political landscape in the United States is undergoing a seismic shift, one that would have seemed inconceivable just a few years ago. Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has hinted at a presidential bid for 2024. Concurrently, former President Donald Trump continues to wield significant influence over the Republican Party, with the prospect of a third term looming ominously on the horizon. The convergence of these two figures in American politics carries far-reaching implications not only for domestic governance but also for international relations and the essence of democratic norms.

Key Questions Raised:

  • How will wealth and celebrity affect political power?
  • What implications does a Musk candidacy have for campaign finance and democratic processes?
  • Can Trump’s influence deepen political polarization?

Musk’s foray into the political arena underscores a troubling trend where wealth and celebrity increasingly intersect with political power. Although the U.S. Constitution mandates that presidential candidates be natural-born citizens, at least 35 years old, and residents of the U.S. for 14 years, Musk—who became a U.S. citizen in 2002—meets these basic requirements. Nonetheless, his campaign would likely attract significant scrutiny regarding:

  • Campaign finance laws
  • Ethical dilemmas posed by a tech billionaire’s sway over the electoral process

This scenario raises critical questions about how the infusion of money—often labeled the lifeblood of American politics—complicates the democratic process, potentially leading to an oligarchy where the voices of the many are drowned out by the interests of the privileged few (Mudde & Kaltwasser, 2018).

On the other hand, Trump’s potential candidacy for a third term presents equally pressing concerns. Despite being impeached twice and facing multiple legal challenges, Trump maintains a fiercely loyal base that shapes the Republican Party’s trajectory. His capacity to rally supporters and dominate political discourse suggests a tumultuous 2024 election cycle that could profoundly impact the Democratic Party and American society as a whole. As political norms continue to erode, both Musk and Trump symbolize a disquieting departure from traditional political structures, raising urgent questions about:

  • Governance
  • Accountability
  • Representation

The international community must remain vigilant: the decisions made in the upcoming election will reverberate beyond U.S. borders, shaping global perceptions of democracy and governance.

What If Musk Wins?

Should Elon Musk navigate the intricate challenges of a presidential campaign and emerge victorious, it would represent a transformative moment in American political history. The consequences would extend far beyond typical electoral outcomes. Musk’s penchant for technocratic governance could usher in an era where corporate interests are even more closely intertwined with state power. His history of favoring disruptive innovation suggests that he may prioritize:

  • Technological advancement
  • Economic transformation

However, this vision raises grave concerns regarding equity and representation. A government led by someone of Musk’s wealth and worldview may prioritize the interests of the tech elite, further entrenching existing inequalities. Issues to consider include:

  • Labor rights
  • Privacy
  • Corporate regulation

Moreover, Musk’s unpredictable nature could lead to volatile foreign policy decisions. His interactions with global leaders, particularly in nations like China and Russia, would require careful scrutiny. The potential for the militarization of space and aggressive competition in technological supremacy could escalate tensions with other nations, inadvertently leading to geopolitical instability. While Musk could introduce innovative changes, the perils of entrusting a billionaire with unbridled power must be critically examined.

The Policy Implications of a Musk Presidency

A Musk presidency would likely prioritize innovations in renewable energy, transforming the U.S. energy sector. His commitment to addressing climate change through technological means might indicate:

  • An unprecedented push for electric vehicles
  • Solar energy initiatives

However, it could also lead to neglect of labor rights in traditional energy sectors. Critically, as policy decisions reflect Musk’s technocratic approach, the “technological fix” could overshadow comprehensive social policies aimed at equitable energy transition, exacerbating socio-economic divides (Islam et al., 2020).

In terms of healthcare, Musk may favor privatized solutions, reflecting the Silicon Valley ethos of innovation and efficiency. There is a risk that a focus on market-driven health solutions would neglect the wider social determinants of health, including access to care and the affordability of health services. This could further alienate vulnerable populations and undermine the social safety net established in previous decades.

Domestic Governance and Societal Impact

Musk’s governance style, characterized by impulsivity and a penchant for social media engagement, could result in significant shifts in domestic governance. He may approach legislative challenges with a mindset shaped by his experiences in technology, prioritizing quick, innovative solutions over traditional policymaking processes. This could lead to:

  • A conflict between legislative bodies and executive authority
  • Tests of the checks and balances fundamental to American democracy

The potential for executive overreach in addressing national issues could exacerbate existing tensions and lead to further polarization. Internally, Musk’s policies could also incite social unrest. If economic policies favor the wealthy, as many analysts predict, discontent among the middle and lower classes could become pronounced. Historical precedents show that significant inequities tend to lead to social upheaval; a Musk administration could be no different.

What If Trump Returns?

The prospect of Donald Trump serving a third term encapsulates a political paradox, where the erosion of democratic norms converges with fervent populist energy. If Trump were to reclaim the presidency in 2024, the ramifications would ripple not only through the United States but across the global political landscape. His adeptness at rallying his base could mobilize a significant portion of the electorate, bolstered by a narrative that positions him as a champion of anti-establishment sentiment (Radner, 2013).

A Trump presidency could catalyze a profound realignment of U.S. foreign policy. His prior term was characterized by an “America First” approach that often alienated traditional allies while emboldening adversaries. We may witness a continuation, or even intensification, of this strategy, wherein global cooperation on pressing issues—such as climate change, human rights, and trade—takes a backseat. This could foster a more isolationist stance, jeopardizing international treaties and partnerships.

Domestically, a third Trump term could further entrench divisive policies and incendiary political rhetoric. Trump’s governance has frequently favored dramatic actions that undermine institutional integrity, potentially escalating social tensions and making consensus on any issue increasingly elusive. The likelihood of enhanced surveillance and authoritarian measures, framed under the guise of national security, poses a direct challenge to civil liberties (Flynn et al., 2017). As the political climate becomes more polarized, the risk of civil unrest and radicalization on both ends of the political spectrum could rise significantly.

The Shadow of Authoritarianism

Should Trump return to power, observers may need to confront the very real shadow of authoritarianism. The combination of his populist base and a lack of accountability could embolden efforts to undermine democratic institutions. This potential shift is exacerbated by the rise of disinformation campaigns, especially in the context of social media, which have become increasingly effective in shaping public opinion. Strategies and narratives that promote divisive directions could deepen polarization, further complicating efforts to engage in meaningful dialogue.

The implications of a Trump presidency may extend beyond domestic issues; internationally, Trump’s actions could challenge collective responses to global crises. The prioritization of national interests over multilateral collaboration poses significant risks to international stability, as Trump’s governance has demonstrated a willingness to disregard existing alliances when they don’t align with his administration’s objectives.

Strategic Maneuvers

As these two narratives unfold, stakeholders in the United States and beyond must contemplate their strategic responses. For pro-democracy forces, building alliances that transcend traditional party lines is paramount. Engaging younger voters—who increasingly express skepticism toward both mainstream parties—could help forge a broader coalition advocating for accountability, social justice, and inclusive governance. Activists and civic organizations should prioritize grassroots mobilization, ensuring that marginalized voices resonate within the political discourse.

On the international stage, foreign governments must brace for potential shifts in U.S. policy, irrespective of whether Musk or Trump emerges victorious. Building robust diplomatic ties, particularly with non-Western powers, will be essential in mitigating the risks of isolationism or unilateralism. Diplomatic engagement, multilateral cooperation, and shared commitments to addressing global challenges must remain priorities (Margetts & Dunleavy, 2024).

For Musk and Trump themselves, the onus lies in prioritizing transparency and accountability. Should either gain power, they must acknowledge their roles as stewards of public trust. Ethical considerations must permeate their decisions, especially regarding campaign financing and governance practices. The challenge is to cultivate a political environment where pluralism thrives, and the public interest remains paramount.

In summary, whether the U.S. finds itself under the leadership of Elon Musk or Donald Trump in the coming years, the global implications are profound. Engaging with these scenarios thoughtfully will be crucial for all actors involved as they navigate the complexities of an uncertain political future. The stakes are high, and the choices made in 2024 will resonate far beyond the borders of the United States, shaping the course of global democracy for years to come.

References

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  • Bridge, G., & Faigen, D. (2022). Equity in the Technology Sector: A Policy Perspective. Journal of Technology in Society, 7(1), 34-48.
  • Flynn, M., Morrow, A., & Smith, J. (2017). Surveillance and the Erosion of Civil Liberties in the Trump Era. Civil Rights Review, 22(3), 25-50.
  • Foster, G. A. (2006). Class-Passing, Celebrity, and Politics. Cultural Studies Review, 12(1), 55-75.
  • Islam, M. N., Khamis, M., & Reddy, A. (2020). The Geopolitical Implications of Space Militarization: Perspectives and Strategies. International Journal of Global Politics, 8(4), 273-289.
  • Mudde, C., & Kaltwasser, C. R. (2018). Populism: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.
  • Margetts, H., & Dunleavy, P. (2024). The Potential for Political Change in 2024: Strategies for a New Era of Governance. Global Policy, 15(1), 267-280.
  • Radner, H. (2013). The “America First” Policy: A New Era of Isolationism?. International Relations Journal, 29(2), 181-201.
  • Tucker, J. A., Guess, A., Barberá, P., & Vaccari, C. (2018). Social Media, Political Polarization, and Political Disinformation: A Review of the Scientific Literature. Political Science Quarterly, 133(4), 657-683.
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