Former Aide Labels Elon Musk an 'Illegal Alien'
Steve Bannon, once a senior White House strategist, publicly accused Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk of being an "illegal alien" and demanded his deportation. This controversy unfolded following Musk's threat to suspend SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft operations, which ferry astronauts to and from the International Space Station (ISS).
Bannon’s Demands and Immigration Allegations
In a forceful statement, Bannon urged the U.S. government to initiate a formal investigation into Musk's immigration status. He asserted, "He should be deported from the country immediately." Additionally, Bannon called for the government to seize control of SpaceX, arguing Musk’s actions pose a national security risk.
Threat to SpaceX’s Dragon Program and Government Intervention
Musk’s threat to shut down the Dragon spacecraft program alarmed several political figures. In response, Bannon proposed that former President Donald Trump invoke the Defense Production Act to take over SpaceX operations. This Cold War-era legislation grants the President authority to compel private companies to prioritize government contracts, especially in critical sectors such as defense and aerospace.
On his podcast "War Room," Bannon emphasized:
"President Trump should sign an executive order immediately, using the Defense Production Act to seize SpaceX before midnight."
Additional Accusations and Calls for Security Review
Bannon further accused Musk of alleged drug use and trying to procure classified Pentagon information concerning China. He requested that Musk’s security clearance be suspended and all government contracts with his companies be terminated pending investigation.
Escalating Tensions Between Musk and Trump
The controversy intensified after Musk criticized Trump’s policy initiative known as "One Big Beautiful Bill." Trump responded by reflecting on their previously cordial relationship with uncertainty about its future. Musk retorted by alleging suppression of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, suggesting implications involving Trump.
Summary of Key Points
- Steve Bannon: Called Elon Musk an "illegal alien" and demanded deportation.
- Musk’s Threat: Proposed shutting down SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft program.
- Defense Production Act: Recommended for government seizure of SpaceX.
- Security Allegations: Claims of drug use and attempts to access Pentagon secrets.
- Rising Discord: Musk and Trump’s exchanges have grown more confrontational recently.
Implications for the Aerospace Sector and Politics
This development highlights the complex intersection of private enterprise and national security concerns. SpaceX plays a vital role in the U.S. space program by servicing the ISS, rendering such high-profile disputes consequential for policy and public perception.
The calls for investigation and government takeover, albeit unprecedented, underscore the volatility of political relations impacting influential tech figures.
