Elon Musk, worth approximately $280 billion and owner of the social media platform X, used both his financial resources and influence to support Donald Trump in the 2024 campaign, emerging as a key ally in boosting the GOP’s messaging efforts. Trump acknowledged Musk’s significant role at a rally in Palm Beach, Florida, calling him “an amazing guy” and saying, “We have a new star, a star is born… Elon.” This came after Fox News projected Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, making Trump the 47th president of the United States.
Like other billionaires who invest heavily in political campaigns, Musk provided substantial support through complex financial structures, including contributions to political action committees (PACs) and tax-exempt nonprofit groups. Since the 2010 Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. FEC, corporate spending in elections has dramatically increased, creating what critics call a “dark money” era in campaign finance.
Musk’s backing in 2024, however, was particularly notable. He was the principal supporter of “America PAC,” which reportedly knocked on 11 million doors in key states and spent over $175 million on digital ads and other outreach, primarily promoting Trump and other GOP congressional candidates. The PAC’s activities faced legal challenges, including a lawsuit from Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, who questioned the legality of America PAC’s $1 million giveaway to swing-state voters. While the Biden-Harris Justice Department expressed concerns over the legality of the initiative, no federal action has been taken.
Musk played a prominent role in America PAC beyond funding it. Hosting town halls and using his celebrity status, he encouraged voters to support Trump, citing critical issues such as border security and concerns about Democratic policies. Spending election night with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, Musk stayed closely involved, reportedly receiving updates on early voting figures.
Representative Troy Nehls (R-TX), a Trump ally, praised Musk’s efforts as “significant,” adding that Musk’s potential role in a future Trump administration would be “brilliant.” Musk’s ownership of X was also an asset for Republicans, who see mainstream media as biased against conservatives. Since acquiring the platform (formerly Twitter) in 2022, Musk has increased visibility for Trump-allied influencers and elevated conservative voices, providing Republicans with what many view as invaluable free publicity.
In addition to hosting rallies and interviews with Trump, Musk convinced popular podcast host Joe Rogan to endorse Trump. Hayden Ludwig of the conservative group Restoration of America noted that Musk’s efforts countered the influence of left-leaning megadonors like George Soros, stating, “It was an enthusiasm gap. We have Elon, Joe Rogan, and a few others to thank for that.”
Musk’s role in the campaign has placed him firmly in Trump’s inner circle. The two are considering creating a government efficiency board led by Musk to reduce federal spending—a proposal that has raised concerns among some watchdogs, given Musk’s companies’ reliance on federal contracts.
Following Trump’s win, Musk posted a photo on X of himself with Trump, captioned, “You are the media now.” He later announced that America PAC would continue its work, aiming to counterbalance what he sees as the damaging influence of left-wing donors on American politics.
Republican megadonor John Catsimatidis highlighted the contributions of Musk and others who rallied behind Trump despite legal and political challenges. Reflecting on Musk’s efforts, Catsimatidis commented, “He played a contributory factor, like the rest of us. America was on the edge of World War III.”
