Wall Street Journal: “Elon Musk, a close ally to President-elect Donald Trump, has taken broadsides from MAGA movement leader Steve Bannon on two continents in recent days. Musk feuded with right-wing conspiracy theorist and Trump-backer Laura Loomer over immigration policy. And his free-ranging access to Trump has miffed some of the president-elect’s aides and allies, who argue that he was getting involved in matters he had little understanding of and speaking too much in meetings.”
“Nonetheless, the Tesla CEO’s influence on Trump can be felt on everything from diplomacy to immigration policy. He’ll play an even bigger role from his perch as co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency, a task force weighing which federal programs to cut and how the government regulates companies—including the ones he leads.”
“Musk’s survival—so far—shows that Trump 2.0 is shaping up to have some echoes of the first administration, with Trump welcoming a team of rivals into his inner circle. Musk stands out for developing a latticework of support with top staff and family that helps sustain his status. He has shown a willingness to fund the MAGA movement and use his X social-media platform to stretch its reach.”

