US Election 2024: What does the Trump - Musk campaign duo signal?

With its combined economic and political power, this alliance not only influences election results but could also change the way government operates if Donald Trump returns to the White House.

Former US President Donald Trump speaks at a press conference in Palm Beach, Florida, USA, on August 8, 2024. Photo: Getty Images/VNA

According to the Kyiv Post (Ukraine) on October 12th, the alliance between Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk in the 2024 US presidential election campaign has sparked strong reactions in the international media, particularly in Europe. This combination not only represents financial power but also opens up challenging prospects for the future of American politics. When two highly influential figures in business and politics join forces, the question arises: what will this alliance bring, and will it have a positive or negative impact on the election and the American political system? At a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, billionaire Elon Musk appeared on stage with former US President Donald Trump, calling for support for the Republican Party with the goal of "protecting American democracy." The relationship between the two men goes beyond Musk's endorsement of Trump; Trump has repeatedly hinted that Musk might take on a high-ranking position in the administration if he returns to the White House. This has led the Danish newspaper Politiken to express concern about the potential formation of a "fiscal oligarchy," where political and economic power could pose a serious challenge to democracy. The newspaper warns of an "unprecedented combination of finance, business interests, and political influence." If Trump is elected and Musk holds a significant role in the administration, it could be the most powerful combination of power in American history, transforming the way government operates and raising concerns about transparency in the political system. One of the major points of contention is how Musk will use his influence to attract voters. The Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera questioned the legality of billionaire Elon Musk's offer of a $47 reward to registered voters and those who refer supporters. While not a direct form of "vote buying," this action raises concerns about the transparency of the election campaign. Rewarding those who register or refer voters could easily be seen as an indirect way to influence the election results. Under US law, paying voters or those who register to vote is illegal. However, Musk cleverly avoided a direct violation by only offering rewards to those who support crucial constitutional rights such as the First Amendment (freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom to petition). This creates a legal ambiguity in US law, but still sparks debate about the transparency and legitimacy of the election. The alliance between former President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk is not only causing concern among moderate voters but could also become a catalyst for Democratic supporters. Spanish journalist Antón Losada, writing on Eldiario.es, argues that Elon Musk's presence in Trump's campaign could create a boomerang effect, meaning the opposite impact. The appearance of a major figure like Musk could make moderate voters, especially those who are undecided, realize the risks this alliance poses and, consequently, decide to vote for the Democrats.

Journalist Losada further explained that Musk's involvement in Trump's campaign could boost the morale of Democratic voters, especially those concerned about "the negative impact this alliance could have on American democracy." Despite mixed reactions, it's undeniable that the combination of former President Trump and billionaire Musk has created certain advantages for the Republican Party. The Bulgarian newspaper Trud argues that Trump has a greater chance in this election than in the previous one. One reason is that Elon Musk now owns the social media platform X, which Trump used to connect with voters in previous campaigns. Additionally, Musk's public support for Trump's MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement could help attract more Republican loyalists, particularly in swing states. However, as Trud notes, even with the advantage, Trump is not guaranteed to win, and other factors such as voter mobilization capabilities and Democratic strategies will still play a significant role in this election.

Cong Thuan/News Report (According to kyivpost.com)

Source: https://baotintuc.vn/the-gioi/bau-cu-my-2024-bo-doi-chien-dich-tranh-cu-trump-musk-bao-hieu-dieu-gi-20241013102157823.htm