At a campaign event in Folsom, Pennsylvania, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, voiced his support for former President Donald Trump by promoting debunked conspiracy theories related to election fraud. Musk discussed the claim that Dominion Voting Systems was involved in rigging U.S. elections, specifically highlighting the use of voting machines in certain counties like Philadelphia and Maricopa County, Arizona. He suggested that the reliance on computerized systems, like those used by Dominion, raised concerns about election integrity, advocating instead for the exclusive use of paper ballots.
Dominion Voting Systems quickly refuted Musk’s claims. A spokesperson emphasized that Dominion voting systems are based on paper ballots verified by voters and noted that hand counts and audits have consistently confirmed the accuracy of results produced by their machines. The spokesperson also clarified that Dominion does not provide services to Philadelphia County, contradicting Musk’s remarks. Dominion has faced similar claims in the past but has consistently rejected allegations of election manipulation, even securing a $787.5 million settlement with Fox News over related defamatory claims.
At the event, Musk’s comments extended beyond election fraud. He discussed various topics, including censorship, government spending, the Second Amendment, and public safety in U.S. cities. He claimed that cities have become increasingly unsafe, although FBI statistics show a general decrease in crime, particularly in major cities. Musk also criticized the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border, likening it to scenes from the movie World War Z.
Musk took audience questions during the event, engaging with attendees on topics such as Democratic donor George Soros, whom he labeled as “evil” and accused of undermining societal values. He also entertained conspiracy theories about Vice President Kamala Harris, suggesting that she is controlled by unknown figures.
Throughout the event, Musk urged attendees to register to vote, stressing Pennsylvania’s significance in the upcoming election. He described the state as pivotal to the outcome of the 2024 presidential race, warning that the future of the U.S. and Western civilization was at stake in the election.Musk’s involvement in this campaign event reflects his increasing political activity, particularly his growing support for Trump and conservative causes. He has significantly ramped up his backing of Trump’s campaign, contributing around $75 million to a pro-Trump political action committee (PAC) he created earlier this year. His political involvement has also extended to his social media platform, X (formerly known as Twitter), where Musk frequently amplifies pro-Trump rhetoric, echoing themes related to voter fraud, immigration, and other conservative talking points.
Musk’s alignment with Trump was highlighted when he joined the former president on stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, just two weeks prior to the Folsom event. This appearance further solidified Musk’s transition from a business mogul known for innovative ventures in tech and space exploration to a prominent figure in conservative political circles. His use of X to broadcast his views to over 200 million followers amplifies his influence, as he has turned his platform into a constant stream of support for Trump and critiques of various issues, including U.S. election processes, immigration policies, and social dynamics in cities.
During the event, Musk’s rhetoric was not only aimed at promoting voter engagement but also at casting doubt on the legitimacy of the election system. His insistence on the use of paper ballots and skepticism toward computerized voting methods resonate with a segment of the electorate that harbors distrust in modern voting infrastructure. However, independent studies and investigations have repeatedly found no widespread voter fraud in the U.S., contradicting many of the claims Musk has espoused.
In addition to addressing election-related topics, Musk touched on broader societal concerns, such as free speech, censorship, and government overreach, themes that align with his general libertarian-leaning views. These concerns often resonate with his supporters, who view him as a figure challenging the status quo. Musk’s criticism of prominent figures like Soros and his willingness to engage with controversial topics further endear him to a conservative base that sees him as a champion of their causes.
As the 2024 election approaches, Pennsylvania remains a key battleground state, and Musk’s involvement highlights the increasing role that influential billionaires are playing in shaping political narratives. His calls to action, urging attendees to mobilize friends and family to vote, underscore the high stakes of the election, with Musk framing it as a crucial turning point for the nation.
In his closing remarks, Musk reiterated his belief that the fate of America—and by extension, Western civilization—was intertwined with the outcome of the 2024 election, positioning Pennsylvania as the decisive state. His appearance at the town hall in Folsom marks the beginning of a series of planned campaign events, signaling his ongoing commitment to influencing the political landscape in favor of Trump and the values Musk sees as essential to the nation’s future.
