President Biden Criticizes Elon Musk Over Alleged Immigration Hypocrisy
President Joe Biden has publicly criticized tech billionaire Elon Musk for alleged hypocrisy on immigration issues, following reports that Musk may have worked illegally in the United States during his early career.
During a campaign event in Pittsburgh, Biden highlighted allegations that Musk, who originally hails from South Africa, had worked in the U.S. while on a student visa. The President’s comments come in the wake of a Washington Post report suggesting that Musk arrived in Palo Alto in 1995 for a Stanford program but instead focused on his startup, Zip2, without proper work authorization.
Musk has vehemently denied these allegations on social media, asserting that he was legally permitted to work in the U.S. However, the controversy has raised questions about the tech mogul’s early days in America and his current stance on immigration policies.
The Washington Post report claims that Zip2 investors were concerned about Musk’s immigration status, pressuring him to secure a work visa to avoid potential deportation. Adding to the complexity of the situation, a 2005 email from Musk, used as evidence in a past California defamation lawsuit, reportedly admitted to his lack of authorization when starting Zip2.
Currently, the world’s richest man, Musk has become a significant donor to Republican campaigns and has pledged substantial financial support to former President Donald Trump and other GOP candidates. His active participation in campaign events, often echoing Trump’s anti-immigration rhetoric, has drawn attention to his immigration history.
The controversy takes on added significance as Trump has promised Musk a role in his administration if elected. As of now, Musk’s companies, X and Tesla, have not provided immediate comments on the matter.
This developing story highlights the complex intersection of immigration policy, tech entrepreneurship, and political influence in the United States. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these allegations might impact Musk’s political involvement and public image.