Will Trump actually do it?

Elon Musk, the tech mogul behind Tesla and SpaceX, has sparked a debate about the future of U.S. involvement in international organizations, echoing sentiments held by many conservatives. Musk recently voiced support for a suggestion that the United States should pull out of NATO and the United Nations, signaling his agreement with a proposal from MAGA influencer Gunther Eagleman, who argued it was time for the U.S. to step back from these global institutions.

Though Musk didn’t elaborate on his reasons, his endorsement came after repeated calls from figures like Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) to reassess America’s participation in these organizations. Senator Lee, a frequent ally of Musk, introduced legislation last month calling for the U.S. to exit the UN, criticizing it as a “platform for tyrants” and accusing it of undermining American interests. Lee has also expressed frustration with NATO, particularly in light of recent tensions surrounding U.S. interactions with NATO member countries.

Many Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have long voiced concerns that NATO has become too burdensome for the U.S., which carries a disproportionate share of the financial and military responsibilities. Trump famously criticized European allies for not meeting their defense spending obligations, arguing that America is unfairly shouldering the costs of protecting countries that should be paying more for their own defense. Musk shares similar concerns, questioning why the U.S. continues to foot the bill for NATO’s operations, especially after the collapse of the Soviet Union, which was the original justification for the alliance.

Musk’s position resonates with many conservative voices who believe that international organizations like NATO and the UN often act in ways that undermine American sovereignty and interests. These critics argue that the U.S. should prioritize its own needs and reduce its involvement in costly and ineffective international commitments. By aligning himself with these views, Musk has once again positioned himself as a leading figure in the push for a more nationalist, America-first foreign policy.