Elon Musk is once again at the center of controversy, this time due to an inflammatory post on his social media platform, X.
His comments came right after Secret Service agents thwarted an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.
Musk’s remark was sparked by a post questioning why there’s an apparent desire to harm Trump.
Musk provocatively responded, “And no one is even trying to assassinate Biden or Kamala,” referring to the current President and Vice President.
This comment quickly ignited outrage across the political spectrum.
Backlash and Defenses
Musk didn’t shy away from the backlash initially.
He doubled down on his stance, even using a ‘100’ emoji in response to a comment suggesting that Trump represents a threat to the establishment, while Biden and Harris are part of that establishment.
However, realizing the gravity of the situation, Musk eventually deleted his posts.
He later admitted that his comments were poorly received and clarified that he hadn’t meant them to be taken seriously.
Reflecting on the situation, Musk noted, “Just because I say something to a group and they laugh doesn’t mean it’s going to be all that hilarious as a post on X.”
Reactions and Criticism
The reaction to Musk’s comments was swift and severe.
Conservative columnist Jonah Goldberg called Musk’s post “appalling and indefensible,” while comedian Maz Jobrani even suggested that the Secret Service should look into Musk’s remarks, jokingly urging them to “pay this guy a visit.
He ain’t right in the head!” Musk’s controversial remarks followed a recent scandal involving the New Hampshire Libertarian Party, which had come under fire for a tweet suggesting that Kamala Harris should be killed.
The tweet, deemed “abhorrent” by Libertarian presidential nominee Chase Oliver, was eventually removed but defended by the party as a free speech issue.
Tensions with Australia
Adding to Musk’s recent troubles, he sparked another controversy by labeling the Australian government as “fascists” for proposing new laws that would penalize social media platforms for spreading misinformation.
The Australian government’s bill includes hefty fines for tech companies that fail to comply with online safety obligations.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded, emphasizing that social media platforms have a social responsibility and suggesting that Musk’s comments reveal more about him than about the Australian government.
Global Backlash and Legal Issues
This dispute with Australia is part of a broader pattern of clashes Musk has had with governments and digital rights groups around the world.
In the European Union, X could face fines if regulatory action is taken against it.
In Brazil, where X faces a suspension for ignoring court orders, Musk labeled the judge as an “evil dictator cosplaying as a judge.”
Musk’s ongoing battle with international authorities highlights his contentious relationship with global social media regulation and free speech issues.
So, what’s next for Elon Musk? It seems the controversies surrounding him are far from over.
Mine Crypto. Earn $GOATS while it is free! Click Here!!