Amid escalating unrest in Los Angeles driven by anti-ICE demonstrations, tech billionaire Elon Musk signaled renewed support for former President Donald Trump by amplifying his calls for federal intervention on social media.
On Monday, Musk reshared a Truth Social post by Trump that criticized Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for their handling of the protests. The post described demonstrators as “troublemakers and insurrectionists” and called on local leaders to “apologize to the people of Los Angeles.”
Musk added his own comment: “Federal authority must stand firm.” The post was viewed over 40 million times within hours.
Relationship Shift
This public alignment marks a notable shift in the previously strained relationship between the two figures. In recent weeks, Musk accused Trump of being linked to the Epstein case, prompting the former president to threaten the cancellation of federal contracts with Musk-owned companies such as SpaceX and Tesla.
Now, Musk’s remarks suggest a potential reconciliation, focused on shared priorities around law enforcement and immigration policy during civil unrest.
Protests and Federal Response
The protests in Los Angeles began on June 6 following widespread immigration raids by ICE agents. Over the weekend, the demonstrations intensified. Protesters blocked key roads, including the 101 Freeway, set fire to autonomous taxis, and clashed with police using commercial-grade fireworks, debris, and incendiary devices.
In response, Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops under Title 10 authority—federalizing the deployment over objections from state officials. The Pentagon confirmed that an additional 500 U.S. Marines were placed on standby at the Twentynine Palms base.
Why It Matters
Political impact: Musk’s public backing of Trump during a national crisis may reshape public perception of both men’s roles in federal-state dynamics.
Business stakes: Musk’s companies depend on federal contracts, and this shift could signal a pragmatic recalibration amid political pressure.
Public visibility: The post places Musk in the center of a high-stakes political moment as the protests continue across Southern California.
