Elon Musk, the boss of several multi-billionaire companies, threw weight and money behind Republican candidate Donald Trump ahead of 2024the presidential elections. Today, he seems to be reaping the fruits of his ‘win-it-all or lose-it-all’ bet.
A New York Times report has revealed that Musk’s companies, particularly SpaceX, are set to receive billions in federal government contracts in coming years.
US government departments seeking SpaceX services
For instance, SpaceX’s Starlink service is being considered as a frontrunner for the Commerce Department’s $42 billion rural broadband push. The proposal was largely pushed on the backburner during former president Joe Biden’s era.
Then, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also doubling down on using Starlink services to expand government internet access. The NYT reported that even the White House seems to have purchased Starlink satellite dishes.
It’s ironic how Musk, under the ambit of his so-called Department of Government Efficiency, continues to slash federal workforce and government size but at the same time, he continues to expand his influence in the government.
Observers say his position as an advisor to President Trump gives him the ability to cancel federal contracts in the name of cost-cutting, while at the same time, allows him to influence government decisions that may land his companies lucrative contracts.
Content retrieved from: https://www.firstpost.com/world/spacex-eyes-billions-in-new-us-govt-contracts-as-musks-influence-widens-in-trump-administration-13873851.html.
